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The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip with Kids (50+ Stops Active Toddlers & Preschoolers Will Actually Love)
Planning a California coast road trip with kids? After multiple family road trips with our two energetic boys, we’ve discovered the best beaches, playgrounds, hotels, restaurants, and hidden gems from Santa Cruz to San Diego. Whether you’re driving the entire coast or just one section, this guide includes 50+ toddler- and family-friendly stops to help make every mile part of the adventure.
Malibu beach sunset views
The "Are We There Yet?" Cure: 50+ California Coast Road Trip Stops for Active Kids and Toddlers
If you’ve ever loaded two energetic little boys into the car for a long drive, you know the destination is only half the adventure. Even I have trouble with long car rides!
The real challenge is making it from Point A to Point B without hearing “Are we there yet?” or “I’m hungry” every ten minutes.
After multiple family road trips up and down the California coast, we’ve found the stops that actually work for young kids—places to run, climb, snack, spot wildlife, stretch little legs, and give everyone a much-needed break before getting back in the car.
This isn’t your typical Pacific Coast Highway itinerary filled with scenic overlooks that toddlers and little kids couldn’t care less about (although we’ll include plenty of beautiful views too!).
Instead, this guide is packed with:
🛌 Family-friendly hotels we personally stayed in
🛝 Playgrounds worth pulling over for
🏖️ Beaches where kids can safely explore
🦭 Wildlife stops they’ll actually remember
🍦 Ice cream shops and bakeries you’ll want to revisit
🥾 Easy hikes perfect for little legs
🍔 Little kids and Toddler-approved restaurants
⚡️ Charging stops (for our fellow EV families!)
Whether you’re driving one section of the coast or planning the entire journey from Santa Cruz to San Diego, these are the stops our family genuinely loved.
California Coast Road Trip Map
Save and download (reception can be tough along the coast at times) this custom Google Map here with all recommended stops:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/QMxCH8qo1yiVaoEt7
How We Use This Guide
We don't stop at every location on every trip.
Sometimes we drive straight through while the boys nap.
Other times we'll spend an entire afternoon at a single playground.
That's the beauty of this guide—you can customize your trip based on your kids' ages, nap schedules, and how much energy they need to burn.
Carlsbad Hilton Pool at sunset
Crucial Survival Tips for a California Road Trip with Toddlers and Young Kids
A few things that made this trip so much easier with our boys:
Plan a stop every 1–2 hours. Even 20 minutes at a playground can completely reset everyone’s mood.
If they are napping, drive through to the next stop!
Don’t overbook each day. We usually picked one “big” activity and left room for spontaneous stops.
Pack plenty of snacks and a small cooler.
We always travel with our Regalo Toddler Inflatable Beds, making almost any hotel room work for our family.
If you’re driving an electric vehicle, use charging stops as built-in adventure breaks instead of just waiting in a parking lot.
Keep a change of clothes easily accessible. Beach stops almost always turn into splash stops.
➡️ See our full guide for Successful Toddler Road Trips including snacks, games, books and more!
The Best Kid-Friendly Stops on the California Coast (From Santa Cruz to San Diego)
Jump to a stop:
Santa Cruz: The Ultimate Toddler Energy Burn Stop
Santa Cruz At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive Time
- Starting Point (or 1 hour from San Jose)
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2–3 Days
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn Rating
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Absolutely
Santa Cruz is one of our favorite places to begin a California coast road trip with kids. Between giant redwoods, sandy beaches, playgrounds, and the famous Boardwalk, there's enough here to keep little ones busy for several days. We spent two full days exploring and still left with more on our list for next time.
Huge room perfect for families to stay in at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
🛌 Where We Stayed: Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
📍Location: 407 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
This was the perfect home base for our family.
We stayed in Room 331, which was incredibly spacious and had plenty of room for both of our Regalo toddler inflatable beds. The location made it easy to explore Santa Cruz while still feeling close to everything.
➡️ Read our full Hyatt Place Santa Cruz review
Hunting for Banana Slugs in the Redwoods was our kids favorite activity!
Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz with Kids
We spent 2 full days in Santa Cruz and were surprised how much there was to do! We had jam packed days but managed to balance fun and rest throughout the day!
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is great for toddlers, young kids, older kids, and kids at heart.
🎢 Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
📍Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏱️ Plan: 3–6 hours
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms available
The Boardwalk is an easy favorite for kids of all ages.
Our boys especially loved Neptune’s Kingdom Mini Golf at Buccaneer Bay, and simply walking along the beach was entertainment enough.
Our four-year-old at the hands on exhibit at Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
🌊 Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
📍Location: 35 Pacific Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA, 95060
⏱️ Plan: 45–60 minutes
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of Santa Cruz’s best free attractions.
Although there aren’t live animals inside, there are plenty of interactive exhibits designed for kids.
Our boys loved:
Creating giant waves
Magnetic fishing games
Hands-on exhibits
Even better…
Admission is completely FREE.
Bonus: Every Wednesday morning they host Toddler Time with stories, songs, crafts and themed activities.
Redwood Trees in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park - great energy burner for kids!
🌲 Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
📍Location: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018
⏱️ Plan: 1–2 hours
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you want your kids to experience California’s giant redwoods without a strenuous hike, this is the place.
The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is mostly flat and stroller friendly. Challenge your kids to see who can find the first banana slug! It became one of our favorite parts of visiting Henry Cowell.
Highlights include:
Massive 1,500-year-old redwoods
Trees over 275 feet tall
The famous Fremont Tree, where the entire family can step inside the hollow trunk
Parent Tip: Bring a flashlight—the kids will love exploring inside the tree.
Roaring Camp Railroads steam train was a highlight of our trip for our kids
🚂 Roaring Camp Railroads
📍Location: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018
⏱️ Plan: 2-3 hours
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We walked to Roaring Camp after “hiking” The Redwood Grove Loop Trail!
This was one of our boys' favorite experiences.
The steam train winds through towering redwoods and feels like stepping back in time. The train ride is about 2 hours long - an hour up to the top and 45 mins back. There is a 15 minute stop with bathrooms.
Parent Tip: Buy tickets well before your trip. We almost missed out because trains often sell out.
➡️ See more information in our full 3-Day Itinerary in Santa Cruz post.
Penny Ice Creamery ice cream cone!
🍔 Where to Eat in Santa Cruz with Kids
The Picnic Basket
📍Location: 125 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
The “Fancy Pants” grilled cheese is always a winner with kids, while parents can enjoy sandwiches, salads and avocado toast.
Bonus: They also serve Penny Ice Creamery scoops.
Kid Friendly Restaurant: The Crow’s Nest
📍Location: 2218 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Located by the harbor, this is another excellent family-friendly restaurant.
Kids get to pick a prize from the treasure chest after dinner. Talk about motivation to eat all your food!
🍦 Ice Cream Stop: Penny Ice Creamery
📍Location: 913 Cedar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
If you only stop at one ice cream shop…
Make it this one. Their rotating flavors are unique and limited batch. Check in frequently!
🍨 Ice Cream Stop: Marianne’s Ice Cream
📍Location: 1020 Ocean St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
A Santa Cruz classic that’s been serving ice cream for generations. So many different flavors it’s hard to choose!
Monterey Bay: Best Marine Life & Playground Stops
Monterey At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 45 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 1–2 Days
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Absolutely
Best hotel location in Monterey Bay - The Intercontinental The Clement Monterey
🛌 Where We Stayed: InterContinental The Clement Monterey
You simply can’t beat this location.
The hotel sits next door to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and right on Cannery Row, making it incredibly easy to explore without constantly loading kids back into the car.
➡️ Read our full InterContinental The Clement Monterey hotel review
Don’t Miss These Activities with Kids in Monterey
Fish bigger than our toddler at the Monterey Bar Aquarium
🦦 Monterey Bay Aquarium
📍Location: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
⏱️ Plan: 2-3 hours
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
There was so much to do here! We visited the penguins and the otters at their designated feeding time but it was super crowded. It’s hard to get there early with little ones who don’t want to sit! I think we had more fun watching both of them when there wasn’t a trainer around. There’s even a small playground inside the aquarium as well! If you need snacks, there are a couple spots within the aquarium but we packed snacks and ate them on the patio while we watched the otters playing in the ocean kelp fields near the back of the aquarium.
We also loved finding all sorts of fish throughout the aquarium including fish as big as my toddler, sharks, jellyfish and of course, NEMO!
🛝 Playground Stop: Dennis the Menace Playground
📍Location: 777 Pearl St, Monterey, CA 93940
⏱️ Plan: 2-3 hours
⚡️KidEnergy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lots to do at this park! Rock climb, maze wall, or even rent a paddle boat. Hours of fun to be had. The playground is safe and completely fenced in which is great for curious toddlers!
🍔🛍️ Cannery Row
📍Location: 601 Foam St, Monterey, CA 93940
⏱️ Plan: 1-2 hours
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Historic street that old sardine factories were turned into shops and restaurants. It’s charming and cute!
🦭 Seals and Sea lions
📍Location: 100 Lighthouse Ave, Monterey, CA 93940
⏱️ Plan: 10-20 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Great stop to watch the sea lions play!
🔌 Target and EV Tesla Supercharger
📍Location: 2040 California Ave, Sand City, CA 93955
Stop at Target and charge! There are bathrooms and it’s a great excuse to grab s’mores supplies before continuing south!
🍔 Best Restaurants for Kids in Monterey
🦭 The Salty Seal
📍Location: 653 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940
Lively English bar in a 1929 building. Darts, pool tables, live music, and fire pits on their large outdoor patio! It’s dog friendly too! Kids menu includes corn dogs and chicken strips with fries!
On our list for next time: Tipsy Putt indoor mini golf! Kids are allowed until 7:00 PM.
✨ Parent Tip: Download your offline Google Maps (https://maps.app.goo.gl/QMxCH8qo1yiVaoEt7) and toddler playlists before leaving Monterey. Cell service drops completely in Big Sur, and the winding roads can trigger motion sickness—keep the barf bags accessible just in case!
Big Sur with Kids: Quick, Low-Meltdown Scenic Stops
Big Sur At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 1 hour
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours – 1 day
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- Yes—for camping, glamping, or slowing down to enjoy Big Sur.
Big Sur is breathtaking—but with young kids, we found it worked best as a series of shorter stops rather than an all-day adventure.
Our favorite Stops with Kids in Big Sur:
🪨 Rocky Point near Rocky Creek Bridge
📍Location: 36700 CA-1, Monterey, CA 93940
⏱️ Plan: 20 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️
There’s a great viewpoint of the Bixby Bridge and a secret swing, if you’re comfortable finding it. How to get there - we went down a little road into a parking lot for Rocky Point Restaurant and just off the trail (southwest from the parking lot) there was a little swing hidden!
McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
🏞️ McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
📍Location: 52974 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
⏱️ Plan: 15–30 minutes
⚡️Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available (inside the main state park parking lot)
This is "that" world-famous, postcard-perfect 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto a pristine sandy beach cove. It is arguably the most photographed spot in Big Sur, and the surreal turquoise water is absolutely breathtaking. The actual walk to the viewpoint is an incredibly flat, short, and stroller-friendly stroll (under a half-mile round trip) that goes through a fun tunnel underneath Highway 1—which toddlers love.
⚠️ Crucial Parent Tip: You cannot walk down to the beach or touch the waterfall; it is strictly off-limits to protect the cove and keep visitors safe from steep cliffs. Because the official Overlook Trail has faced long-term closures for a massive retaining wall repair project, parking inside the main lot is very limited. If the trail is blocked when you visit, don't worry! You can still pull over safely at the designated highway turnouts just north of the park entrance and get an incredible view of the waterfall straight from the side of Highway 1 without loading and unloading the stroller.
🏖️ Pfeiffer Beach and Keyhole Rock
📍Location: 9101 Sycamore Canyon Rd, Big Sur, CA 93920
⏱️ Plan: 1 hour
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Keyhole Rock has a “keyhole” arched opening that waves and rays of sunshine burst through, and it’s a popular spot for photographers to shoot.
The purple sand found on certain parts of the beach is produced from manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs. Other activities you can partake in include photography, walking the beach, and exploring the tide pools and dunes.
🍔 Where to Eat in Big Sur with Kids
Nepenthe Restaurant in Big Sur is great for kids!
🍔 Nepenthe Restaurant
📍Location: 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
Not only are there incredible views from the top, but they have good food and drinks too! There are lots of stairs for kids to walk up and down if you need an energy burner. You MUST stop at the cute Phoenix gift shop.
Kids menu: hot dog, grilled cheese, fruit
Adult Menu: Get the Ambrosiaburger with secret sauce (tasted like thousand island)
For next time on our list: Fernwood Tavern for lunch - Located beneath the redwoods and looks like its a treehouse!
San Simeon & Cambria: Best Wildlife Stops for Preschoolers
San Simeon At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 1 hour 35 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours – 1 day
- 👶 Best For
- Preschoolers, Elementary Kids & Older Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes – a great halfway stop between Santa Cruz and Los Angeles.
San Simeon Cavalier Oceanfront Resort ocean room view - perfect resort for kids along the California Coast
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
📍Location: 9415 Hearst Dr, San Simeon, CA 93452
We stayed at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort for a night and it was perfect. This hotel surprised us.
Our boys spent almost as much time on the giant oceanfront lawn as they did at the beach.
Favorite features:
Giant lawn games
Beach volleyball
Oceanfront rooms
Complimentary cookies at check-in
Easy beach access
Firepits at night with S’mores kits available for purchase
There were cookies (and coffee) at the front desk which was a warm welcoming at check-in!
We booked a room with the ocean front view and it did not disappoint. There was an empty fridge and a mini fridge in our room. There was also a cute fireplace that we didn’t get a chance to use but certainly appreciated it.
Best Things to do with Kids
Elephant Seals along the California Coast is the perfect stop for kids along PCH
🦭 Elephant Seals Vista Point
📍Location: 18844 Cabrillo Hwy, San Simeon, CA 93452
⏱️ Plan: 20 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 No bathrooms
Just south of Ragged Point, don't miss one of our favorite free stops along the California coast—the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery.
Hundreds of northern elephant seals gather here throughout the year, so there's always a good chance you'll see them lounging on the beach. If you're visiting in January, May, or October, you'll likely catch even more activity as the colony goes through breeding, molting, and other seasonal behaviors.
These incredible marine mammals are fascinating to watch. Adult males can weigh several thousand pounds and are easy to recognize by their large, trunk-like noses that give elephant seals their name. Although they spend most of their lives far out in the Pacific.
Did you miss the turn? Don’t fret, the Friends of the Elephant Seal’s website has a live webcam.
I wouldn’t take a tour with kids at Hearst Castle but I would visit the trucks! The 1920s Dodge Chemical Fire Truck
🏰 Hearst Castle
📍Location: 700 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins - 1 hour
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
🔌 EV and Tesla Supercharger
While most people who visit Hearst Castle Visitor Center go for a tour of the “castle” and grounds, we with energetic boys, seek trucks. If your toddler thinks historic architecture is boring but screams 'TRUCK!' at every passing vehicle, skip the long mansion tour and hang out at the free visitor center exhibit instead. There is a spectacular vintage fire truck and other historical transportation pieces, artifacts, and context-setting vehicle displays you can spot around the estate grounds:
The 1920s Dodge Chemical Fire Truck: This is the flagship vehicle centerpiece on display directly inside the Visitor Center museum exhibit. It was custom-purchased by William Randolph Hearst to protect the hilltop estate during construction.
The Vintage Tour Buses: Though modern buses handle the daily tours, the Visitor Centerfeatures historical photographs and archival displays dedicated to the original white, open-air buses that transported high-society Hollywood stars up the "Enchanted Hill."
Historic Ranch Equipment: In the free museum exhibition hall at the east end of the center, you can view archival photos and artifacts of the early steam-powered tractors, construction trucks, and cranes used by architect Julia Morgan to build the castle
Cambria
🚗 Drive from Previous Stop: 10 mins
🛏️ Where to Stay: Oceanpoint Ranch
📍Location: 7200 Moonstone Beach Dr., Cambria, CA 93428
This was our backup hotel because it had grassy area and lawn games for the kids to play or run around but for us to also enjoy the fire pits. We might stay here next time!
You can stop along the famous Moonstone beach in this area!
Pismo Beach: The Best Highway 1 Playground Stop
Pismo At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 1 hour
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛝 Playground Stop: Dinosaur Caves Park
📍Location: 2701 Price St, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Real caves and a great place for kids to run! Look for the wildlife too - from sea birds to sea lions! Toddlers can enjoy the dinosaur-themed concrete eggs that are perfect for crawling inside and hiding. The playground also features traditional swings, spinners, and animal-themed structures close to the ground, all set on a safe play surface conducive to active, cushioned exploration.
There is also a massive open grassy lawn adjacent to the play area for open running.
🛍️ Pismo Beach Premium Outlets
📍Location: 333 5 Cities Dr, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
⏱️ Plan: 1 hr
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
⚡️EV Tesla Supercharger
We stopped at the Nike Factory Store and Five Below to get a new car toy and snacks.
Los Alamos: Built-In EV Charging & Caffeine Break
Los Alamos At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 40 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
⚡️We stopped to charge our electric vehicle and found the cutest little town that looked like something out of a western movie or even Radiator Springs.
Los Alamos looked like Radiator Springs to us and Bob's Well Bread Bakery was a delicious stop for breakfast with kids
🥐 Bakery Stop: Bob’s Well Bread Bakery
📍Location: 550 Bell St, Los Alamos, CA 93440
⏱️ Plan: 1 hr
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
⚡️EV and Tesla Super Chargers walking distance
We found the most amazing bakery that looked like it took over an old gas station.
Gibraltar coffee is delicious and strong for mom and dad toddler fatigue.
Pistachio croissants - get there early they sell out!
There is a large seating area outside and a bocce ball court that the kids were running around in.
Santa Barbara: Best Family-Friendly Hotels & Zoo Fun
Santa Barbara At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 1 hour
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 1–2 days
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
📍Location: 633 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Wonderful property located right across the street from the beach! I’ve stayed there a few times and even stayed there when I was a toddler!
There’s a great pool, and giant checker boards for kids to play. There’s also a huge lawn for them to just run out energy! There are even fire pits to enjoy s’mores by at night.
Our room was really spacious and felt like a suite! We had a balcony to sit and chat with a drink and dessert once the boys fell asleep.
The hotel is walking distance from the Zoo or a super short drive!
Don’t miss these places with kids in Santa Barbara:
Santa Barbara Zoo is very hands on for kids - get up close and personal with the animals
🦁 Santa Barbara Zoo
📍Location: 500 Ninos Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
⏱️ Plan: 2-3 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
our favorite zoo!!small zoo but you can see the animals pretty close! The Australia exhibit lets you get up close and personal with wallabies and other wildlife! There’s also a train that circles around the zoo so you can see the animals!
Santa Barbara McConnell's Ice Cream Cone
🍦 Ice Cream Stop: McConnell’s Ice Cream
📍Location: 728 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
McConnell’s has the best local ice cream in Santa Barbara!
Camarillo: Premium Outlets & A Brand New Firetruck Park
Camarillo At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛍️ Camarillo Premium Outlets
📍Location: 740 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010
⏱️ Plan: 1 hr
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
⚡️EV Tesla Supercharger
Stop and shop at the outlets! So many stores, there’s something for everyone. I’ve shopped here ever since I was little, still one of my favorite outlets!
Camarillo Park playground - Dizdar Park has a fire station theme, perfect for toddlers and kids who are fans of trucks
🛝 Playground Stop: Dizdar Park
📍Location: SE Corner of Ventura Blvd and S. Glenn Dr., Old Town Camarillo, CA 93010
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Old Town Camarillo has the cutest Firetruck themed playground that is brand new! As a former fire station once stood here, they moved to make room for a park and outdoor community area.
My boys always ask to go to the Firetruck Park!
There are fun restaurants and shops along Old Town Camarillo as well.
Westlake Village: A Convenient Overnight Stop Close to LA
At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 20 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes – a convenient overnight stop between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.
Hyatt Regency Westlake hotel - spacious for kids and toddlers
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Hyatt Regency Westlake
📍Location: 880 S Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Great place to stop between Santa Barbara and LA if you need a place to break up the 2.5 hour drive. We used our free Hyatt night from our Hyatt Credit Card here. The pool is supposedly heated year round!
➡️ Check out our deep-dive review of the Westlake Hyatt Regency here.
🍔 Great restaurants nearby in Westlake:
🍷 Stonehaus
📍Location: 32039 Agoura Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Stonehaus is a perfect restaurant with kids as most of it is outdoor with communal seating. It has a waterfall fountain and lots of places for the kids to walk around - there’s even a small vineyard that they can walk-through. Menu includes pizza, salads and sandwiches. Oh and wine!
🥯 Brent’s Deli
📍Location: 2799 Townsgate Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Our favorite place for breakfast and lunch. Gotta try the bagel chips!
🛍️ The Promenade at Westlake
📍Location: 140 Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
🔌 EV Tesla Supercharger
Shopping, restaurants, coffee shops, a movie theater, and ice cream! It’s a Caruso property and is very clean with fountains and beautiful landscaping. We love visiting Barnes and Noble, and grabbing a latte from La La Land!
🍔 Paul Martin’s American Bistro
📍Location: 100 S Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village, CA 91362 Great spot for dinner or happy hour. Nice outside patio by the water fountain for kids to run back and forth to while you have a cocktail!
🗺️ Directions: You can take the 101 to the 405 or you can take the canyons to Malibu and continue on PCH.
Malibu: Stroller-Friendly Pier Cafe & Beach Breaks
Malibu At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛝 Playground Stop: Malibu Park Playground
📍Location: 23401 Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA 90265
⏱️ Plan: 1 hr
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
🔌 EV and Tesla Supercharger
Malibu Park playground is perfect to run some energy out. There’s also a Whole Foods, Blue Bottle Coffee shop and more restaurant options walking distance.
Malibu Farm Beach Cafe at the end of the pier
🎣 Malibu Farm Pier Cafe
📍Location: 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy Building B, Malibu, CA 90265
This restaurant is located at the end of the pier! It has great food, good views and is all around a fun stop!
🌺 Duke’s Malibu
📍Location: 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Also a favorite restaurant! located right on the water. Great Hawaiian cuisine and fun drinks. We often see dolphins swimming in the distance!
Santa Monica: Iconic Stops Along PCH for Kids
Santa Monica At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 20 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2–3 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛝 Playground Stop: Santa Monica Parks
If your kids have been cooped up in the car, Santa Monica is one of the best places along the California coast to let them burn off some energy before continuing your road trip.
One of our favorite options is to park near Santa Monica Place and head toward Palisades Park along Ocean Avenue. The wide grassy lawns, walking paths, and ocean views give little ones plenty of room to run while parents can enjoy one of the most beautiful stretches of the California coast.
If you're looking for a traditional playground, head to North Beach Playground (810 CA-1, Santa Monica, CA 90403). It's just steps from the beach and a perfect stop for toddlers and preschoolers who need to climb, slide, and play before getting back in the car.
Dinosaur fountain at the Santa Monica Third Street
🛍️ Third Street Promenade
📍Location: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401
⏱️ Plan: 1-2 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
🔌 EV and Tesla Supercharger at the Santa Monica Place (3 story mall)
The Third Street Promenade is a fun place to stretch your legs with its pedestrian-only streets filled with restaurants, shops, and street performers. One of our boys' favorite stops is the famous dinosaur fountains, where kids love watching the water spray while parents grab a coffee or browse the nearby stores. It's an easy stop that offers something for everyone.
🎡 Santa Monica Pier
📍Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
⏱️ Plan: 1-3 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
No California coast road trip is complete without a walk along the iconic Santa Monica Pier. While Pacific Park's rides are geared a bit more toward older kids, toddlers and preschoolers will still have plenty to enjoy. The historic carousel is a favorite for little ones, and simply watching the roller coaster, Ferris wheel, surfers, and street performers is entertainment in itself.
Even if you don't ride any attractions, strolling to the end of the pier, spotting sea birds, and taking in the ocean views makes this a memorable stop for the whole family.
Marina del Rey: Great playground with views and boats
Marina del Rey at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 20 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2–3 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
We lived in Marina del Rey for 10 years, and was a really nice area. It is a perfect stop for kids filled with a few playgrounds and lots of kid friendly restaurants with marina views.
Mother’s Beach Playground in Marina del Rey with view of boats.
🛝 Playground Stop: Mother’s Beach
📍Location: 4101 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Just 15 mins south, Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey has great playground for toddlers and young kids (our oldest learned how to climb here) with a view of the Marina!
🍔Where to Eat and enjoy the Marina views:
The Cheesecake Factory is conveniently located right next to Mother’s Beach and has perfect Marina views.
🍝 UOVO Marina del Rey
📍Location: 4635 Admiralty Way #105, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Uovo is our favorite place for Italian food. Pasta is imported from Italy and made fresh to order. Dine and enjoy views of the Marina.
➡️ See our full UOVO Restaurant review (this is the Santa Monica Location but applies here too)
🍔 HiHo Cheeseburger
📍Location: 4625 Admiralty Way #109, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Perfect views complete with an area for toddlers to walk around and look at boats! There is a small menu but they have great burgers and milkshakes if you need a quick stop.
Parent tip: Burton Chace Park is at the end of Mindanao Way, however, it does not have a playground.
Long Beach: Fun Activity Stops Along PCH
At a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- Half Day
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
Long Beach makes a great stop if your kids need a break from the car. Between waterfront playgrounds, an impressive aquarium, and plenty of places to grab lunch, it's easy to spend a few hours here before continuing down the California coast.
🛝 Playground Stop: Caesar E. Chavez Park
📍Location: 401 Golden Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
⏱️ Plan: 30-45 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
If your little ones simply need to run, this is one of the best quick stops in Long Beach. Located just minutes from the freeway, Caesar E. Chavez Park features wide open grassy areas, a playground, and beautiful waterfront views. It's an easy place to let toddlers and preschoolers burn off some energy before getting back in the car.
Things to do with Kids in Long Beach:
Most of these attractions are conveniently located around Rainbow Harbor, making it easy to park once and explore on foot.
🛍️ Shoreline Village
📍Location: 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802
⏱️ Plan: 1-2 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Stroll along the waterfront at Shoreline Village, where you'll find colorful shops, restaurants, and plenty of boats to admire in the marina. It's a fun place to grab lunch or an ice cream while enjoying the harbor views. We like stopping here for a relaxed break, and restaurants like Yard House make it an easy family-friendly meal stop.
Jellyfish
🐠 Aquarium of the Pacific
📍Location: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
⏱️ Plan: 2-3 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: available
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of Southern California's best aquariums and well worth the stop if you have the time. Kids can explore exhibits featuring sharks, penguins, jellyfish, and colorful tropical fish while learning about marine life from around the Pacific Ocean.
Toddlers and preschoolers especially enjoy the interactive exhibits and watching the animals swim overhead. Plan on spending at least a couple of hours here, although it's easy to stay even longer. We spent a lot of time watching the penguins!
🚢 Queen Mary
📍Location: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802
⏱️ Plan: 10–30 minutes (to admire from outside)
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️
The historic Queen Mary (or as our little one called it, “BIG BOAT!”) is one of Long Beach's most recognizable landmarks. While touring the ship is better suited for older children and adults, it's still fun to stop and admire this famous ocean liner from the waterfront.
If you're traveling with toddlers, we'd recommend simply walking around the outside and snapping a few photos before heading to your next stop. Families with older kids may enjoy exploring the ship or taking one of its popular haunted tours.
Dana Point: The Perfect "Traffic Reset" Playground
Dana Point at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 50 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 20 mins
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛝 Playground Stop: Lantern Bay Park
📍Location: 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
It’s a good quick stop if there is traffic between Dana Point and Carlsbad. There are bathrooms available too.
Carlsbad: LEGOLAND Basecamp & Ocean-View Pools
Carlsbad at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours – 1 day
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes – especially if you're visiting LEGOLAND.
Pool View at the Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach Resort
Carlsbad is an easy family-friendly stop on a Southern California road trip, especially if you’re heading to LEGOLAND. It has beaches, a major theme park, outlet shopping, and enough kid-friendly food stops to make it a great place to spend a night or two.
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort and Spa
📍Location: 1 Ponto Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011
We originally booked Cape Rey because we were visiting LEGOLAND, but we ended up really enjoying the resort itself. It’s a great option for families who want to stay near the beach while still being an easy drive from Carlsbad’s main attractions.
The ocean views are beautiful, and the pool area gave the boys a chance to swim and reset after a busy day. They also had fun attempting a few rounds of cornhole. It felt relaxed and resort-like without needing to plan a whole separate beach vacation.
🍔🍦 Food Stop: In-N-Out Burger
📍Location: 5950 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92008
This is an easy, reliable stop right off the freeway when everyone is hungry and you need to keep the day moving. Grab burgers, fries, and milkshakes (OBVIOUSLY), then get back on the road—or take your food to a nearby beach or park if the kids need a little more time out of the car.
Other Things to do with Kids in Carlsbad:
Our toddler at Legoland with dinosaurs!
🎡 LEGOLAND California Resort
📍 Location: 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008
⏱️ Plan: Full day
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available throughout the park
LEGOLAND is the main reason many families stop in Carlsbad, and it is especially fun for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age kids. The park has rides, LEGO-building areas, character experiences, and plenty of themed spaces that make it feel exciting without being quite as overwhelming as some of the larger Southern California theme parks.
For younger kids, plan to arrive early and start with the rides that have shorter lines in the morning. There are also plenty of shaded spots, snack stands, and places to take a break when everyone needs a reset. If you have the time, the water park can be a fun add-on on a warm day, but the main park alone is enough for a full day.
Parent Tip: Bring a stroller or rent one, even if your child does not normally use one. There is a lot of walking, and it makes it easier to stay through the afternoon without ending the day with overtired kids.
🛍️ Carlsbad Premium Outlets
📍 Location: 5620 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
⏱️ Plan: 1–2 hours
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
🔌 EV and Tesla Supercharger
The outlets are a convenient stop if you need a new swimsuit, a forgotten pair of sandals, snacks for the car, or simply want to browse while the kids stretch their legs. They are located close to LEGOLAND, so they are easy to combine with a theme-park day or a slower arrival day in Carlsbad.
🌷 The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
📍 Location: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
⏱️ Plan: 1–2 hours
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
If you are visiting in spring, the Flower Fields are a beautiful seasonal stop. The rows of colorful ranunculus flowers make for an easy family photo opportunity, but kids will also enjoy walking the paths, riding the tractor wagon, and having room to move between activities.
The Flower Fields are typically open for a limited spring season, so check current dates before building them into your itinerary. They are close to LEGOLAND and the outlets, which makes this area especially easy to plan as a full Carlsbad day.
Encinitas: Epic Beach Playgrounds & Ice Cream Sandwiches
Encinitas at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 10 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2–3 hours
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ❌ No
🛝 Playground Stop: Moonlight State Beach
📍Location: 400 B St, Encinitas, CA 92024
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Great playground with views of the ocean
Encinitas has what’s like a third street promenade with shops and restaurants nearby.
🍦Ice Cream Stop: The Baked Bear
📍Location: 587 S Coast Hwy 101 Ste. B, Encinitas, CA 92024
Fun ice cream shop with delicious ice cream sandwiches made from fresh baked cookies!
➡️ If you have a sweet tooth, see our full Baked Bear review
Torrey Pines: Kid-Friendly Hikes & Grassy Brunch Spots
Torrey Pines at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 20 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2 hours – 1 day
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes – perfect if you enjoy golf and prefer a quieter stay than downtown San Diego.
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines Room spacious good for kids to run around with a large patio
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
📍Location: 10950 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
We first stayed here when our oldest was only 9 months old! Most rooms have a balcony and some of the upgraded rooms have giant balconies with ocean views and a table with an umbrella. It’s always nice to have extra outdoor space if you have naps or early bedtimes. Nice views of the golf course and ocean.
Entrance to the Farmer and the Seahorse restaurant - great for kids to run around on outdoor patio and grass
🍔Best Restaurant with Kids: Farmer & the Seahorse
📍Location: 10996 Torreyana Rd Ste 240, San Diego, CA 92121
We met friends here for brunch, the Farmer and the Seahorse had amazing food, especially their breakfast options, and a fantastic outdoor space for little ones to run around on grass.
Things to do with Kids near Torrey Pines:
Beach trail hike at Torrey Pines
🥾 Beach Trail Hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve Trails
📍Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
⏱️ Plan: 1 -2 hrs
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Just North of the Hilton and golf course, you’ll find the Torrey Pines State National Reserve. We brought our baby carrier and went for a little beach hike!
There are quite a few trails ranging from 100 yards to 1.2 miles. We took the Beach Trail which was 3/4 mile to the beach but it involved a 350-foot descent and climb. The final beach entry is steep but has stairs.
Make sure you check the tide tables if you plan on going down to the beach, there isn’t a huge beachfront.
🏖️ La Jolla Cove and Children’s Pool
📍Location: 834 coast S Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
⏱️ Plan: 30 mins - 1 hr
⚡️Kid Energy Burn: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
La Jolla Cove is a must if your kids love animals. The sea lions and seals are usually the main event, and it is so fun for little ones to watch them bark, swim, and lounge along the rocks.
Keep children close and admire the animals from a respectful distance. Then walk around the cove, grab an ice cream, or head to a nearby beach.
San Diego: Vintage Car Dining & Famous Zoos
San Diego at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- 2–3 days
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes
San Diego is the big-attractions stop: SeaWorld San Diego, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, La Jolla, and potentially the Safari Park. You can stay in San Diego or at Torrey Pines or even Hotel Del Coronado.
Best Things to do in San Diego with Kids:
🐬 SeaWorld San Diego
📍 Location: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
⏱️ Plan: Full day
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available throughout the park
SeaWorld was one of my favorite stops as a kid, and I cannot wait to experience it again with my own boys. It’s a fun choice for families who want a mix of marine animals, shows, rides, and splashy play areas all in one place. I love the Seal and Otter show!
For toddlers and preschoolers, I would focus on the animal exhibits, gentler rides, and play areas rather than trying to do everything. Pack extra clothes or swimsuits if your kids are drawn to water play, and plan a slower afternoon break if you are staying all day. We would live in the penguin exhibit if we could! 🐧
🦁 San Diego Zoo
📍 Location: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
⏱️ Plan: Full day
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available throughout the zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of those classic family attractions that really lives up to the hype. It is huge, so don’t put pressure on yourself to see every animal in one day. Pick a few must-see animals, use the stroller, and leave room for snacks and breaks.
For younger kids, make time for Wildlife Explorers Basecamp, which has animal encounters, hands-on play spaces, and a splash area. It is one of the best parts of the zoo for toddlers and preschoolers.
Parent Tip: The zoo is inside Balboa Park, so you can pair it with a picnic, carousel ride, or another kid-friendly museum—but I would not try to add too much on the same day. The zoo alone is plenty.
🦒 San Diego Zoo Safari Park
📍 Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027
⏱️ Plan: Full day
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available throughout the park
The Safari Park is a different experience from the San Diego Zoo, with wide-open habitats and animals that feel more like they are roaming across a savanna. It is especially exciting for kids who love giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and big animals.
It is farther inland and involves a lot of walking, so I would choose it as a separate full-day adventure—not a quick add-on. Bring a stroller, water, and sun protection, especially with toddlers.
🌳 Balboa Park
📍 Location: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
⏱️ Plan: 2–4 hours, or pair it with the zoo
⚡ Kid Energy Burn: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🚽 Bathrooms: Available
Balboa Park is worth visiting even if you skip the zoo. There are gardens, wide paths, grassy areas, museums, a carousel, a miniature train, and plenty of space for kids to move around. It is an especially good lower-key day after a theme park or beach day.
For young kids, I would look at the Fleet Science Center for hands-on exhibits or the San Diego Model Railroad Museum if your kids are into trains. Balboa Park has more than 1,000 acres, multiple museums, gardens, and family play areas, so it is easy to customize based on your kids’ ages and energy level.
PARENT TIP: If you only have two days in San Diego, choose one big attraction day (the Zoo or SeaWorld), then spend the second day at La Jolla, Coronado, or Balboa Park. Save the Safari Park for a longer trip.
Coronado Island: A Relaxed Beach Break at the End of the Trip
Coronado Island at a Glance
- 🚗 Drive from Previous Stop
- 20-30 minutes
- ⏱️ Recommended Time
- half day-1 day
- 👶 Best For
- Toddlers, Preschoolers & Elementary Kids
- ⚡ Kid Energy Burn
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- 💰 Budget
- $$$$$
- 🛏️ Overnight Worthy?
- ✅ Yes—especially for a beach-focused splurge or a special stay at Hotel del Coronado.
Coronado Island is a slower, beach-and-hotel stop: beach time, exploring the Hotel del Coronado area, playground breaks, ice cream, and wandering the small downtown. It makes sense for a family who wants a relaxed overnight or half-day.
Iconic Hotel Del Coronado front entrance with seahorse fountain
🛏️ Where We Stayed: Hotel del Coronado
📍Location: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
If you are looking for an iconic, unforgettable grand finale to your California coast road trip, "The Del" is it. This historic beachfront resort is a total wonderland for kids and feels like stepping onto a classic movie set—only entirely family-friendly.
Parent Room Tip: We highly recommend booking a room located right above the main lobby. These specific rooms are incredibly spacious, which gives you plenty of floor space to set up toddler travel beds or pack-and-plays without tripping over each other. Even better, they feature massive balconies. Having a giant, secure outdoor space is a complete game-changer when you need a place to relax with a drink or a dessert after the kids fall asleep!
Why It Works for Active Kids:
🏖️ Steps from the Sand: The hotel sits directly on a gorgeous, wide stretch of beach perfect for sandcastles and running off steam.
🚶🏻♀️ Walkable Downtown: You can easily wander straight into the charming Coronado island downtown area to browse local shops and restaurants without needing to load everyone back into car seats.
🍦 The Ultimate Treat: Don’t leave without stopping by Sundaes at The Del for an epic gourmet ice cream cone or build-your-own sundae to celebrate finishing your epic road trip!
🍔 Best Restaurants for Kids on Coronado Island:
Enjoy pasta with a vintage car table at Garage Buona Forchetta on Coronado Island
🏎️ Garage Buona Forchetta
📍Location: 1000 C Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
This restaurant is so much fun! It looks like you’re walking into a vintage auto shop and in the middle of the dining room there is an iconic vintage red car inside.
Their menu is famous for Neapolitan wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta and other delicious Italian dishes.
🏎️ This restaurant is a total jackpot if you have a Cars or Lightning McQueen fan in the family.
The Henry is great for breakfast or brunch!
🌯 The Henry
📍Location: 1031 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Great cafe for breakfast or brunch! Our one year old was entertained in a high chair, I was entertained with a Breakfast Burrito and mimosa.
🍦 Ice Cream Stop: MooTime Creamery
📍Location: 1025 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
MooTime Creamery has delicious hand crafted ice cream, yogurts and sorbets. The cow decor is fun for little ones and there are tons of options for everyone to enjoy!
MooTime Menu favorites:
🌮 MooTacos (ice cream tacos)
🍨 Scoops, ice cream bars, and sundaes
🍪 Mookies (ice cream sandwiches)
Cow decor and a sundae at MooTime Creamery
FAQ: Planning a Pacific Coast Highway Trip with Kids
Is the California Coast Road Trip kid-friendly?
Yes, the California Coast Road trip is kid friendly filled with plenty of places to stop along the way.
How many days do you need for a California Coast road trip?
For the full Santa Cruz-to-San Diego route, plan 7–10 days if you want time for beaches, attractions, and slower mornings. A shorter 3–5 day trip works best when you choose one section of the coast rather than trying to do the entire drive.
Where should I stop between Santa Cruz and San Diego?
if you’re looking for a place to spend the night between Santa Cruz and San Diego, I would stop and stay in Santa Barbara for the night.
What is the best age for a California road trip?
We had tons of fun on our California road trip with our 2.5 and 4 year old!
Is Highway 1 safe to drive with kids?
Yes, as long as you plan for a slower pace. The Big Sur section is winding and has steep drop-offs, so check road conditions before you go, download offline maps, and plan plenty of breaks for kids who get carsick or need to move.
What should I pack for a California road trip with toddlers?
Pack layers for chilly beach weather, sunscreen, hats, snacks, water, wipes, a change of clothes, and a small car-activity bag. For Big Sur, keep motion-sickness supplies and offline maps handy.
Final Thoughts on Planning a California Coast Road Trip with Kids
A California coast road trip with young kids doesn’t have to be about racing from one destination to the next. Some of our favorite memories weren’t the big-ticket attractions—they were the unexpected moments along the way. Watching elephant seals lounge on the beach, spotting banana slugs beneath towering redwoods, finding a hidden playground, sharing an ice cream after a long drive, or discovering a tiny bakery we never planned to visit.
The best part is that you don’t have to stop at every place on this list. Some days we drove straight through while the boys napped. Other days we spent hours at a single playground because they were having so much fun. This guide is meant to help you build the road trip that works best for your family, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or driving the entire California coast.
As we continue exploring California with our boys, I’ll keep updating this guide with new family-friendly stops, hotels, restaurants, and hidden gems. If you discover a favorite stop along the way, I’d love to hear about it in the comments so we can continue building the ultimate California coast road trip guide for families together.
Happy travels, and don’t forget—the best memories are often made somewhere between the destinations.
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50+ Free Scoops & Deals for National Ice Cream Month & Day 2026
July is national ice cream month and National Ice Cream Day is Sunday, July 19th, 2026! See where you can celebrate with FREE ice cream and deals at a scoop shop near you or even free delivery! We’ll update this post all month, so keep coming back! Find deals for national ice cream day at your favorite places like Baskin-Robbins, Dairy Queen, Jeni’s, and Coldstone! Hooray for Ice cream deals on National Ice Cream Day!
After’s Ice Cream - Venice
Where to get FREE ICE CREAM and Ice Cream DEALS on National Ice Cream Day and throughout National Ice Cream Month - 2026
Updated: 7/18/26
Every July, my boys and I look forward to celebrating National Ice Cream Day together. Sometimes we spend the afternoon trying a brand-new scoop shop, other years we make sundaes at home with way too many toppings, and if we’re lucky, we even hear the ice cream truck coming down our street. We have gone running after it - LITERALLY!
Whether you’re planning a family outing, hunting down free ice cream deals, or just looking for an excuse to enjoy dessert together, this guide has everything you need. I’ll keep updating it with the latest National Ice Cream Day deals, local Los Angeles events, and fun ways to celebrate with kids all month long.
🍦 Check back here throughout the month for additional updates. If you see some shops are marked “Not Confirmed” below, don’t worry, we’ll update them as your favorite scoop shop confirms their deals!
🌴 If you live in Los Angeles, check out my favorite ice cream locations in LA ranked with a map: BEST ICE CREAM SCOOP SHOPS IN LA
🍦 What’s Inside
Jump to the scoop you’re looking for:
🍦 When Is National Ice Cream Day? 🎉 Celebrate with Kids 🍨 Host an Ice Cream Social 💸 National Ice Cream Day Deals 📍 Los Angeles Ice Cream Deals 🎪 Festivals & Events 🚚 Ice Cream Delivery 🏡 Make Your Own Ice Cream 📜 History of National Ice Cream Day📅 When is National Ice Cream Day?
National Ice Cream Day is the third Sunday (or SUNDAE) of July, making National Ice Cream Day 2026 on July 19th! Every year, locations all over the US celebrate with free ice cream or sweet discounted deals!
A bubble waffle Dolly's Dream - cookie monster ice cream, chocolate sauce, brownie, strawberries, and whipped cream!
🎉 How to Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Kids
Ideas:
Visit a new local ice cream shop
Let kids order a crazy flavor
Have an ice cream taste test
Build your own sundae bar
Make homemade ice cream
Read an ice cream-themed book
Chase the neighborhood ice cream truck
Go on an evening family walk for dessert
The cheerful Ice Cream Truck from the children’s book, The Trucks that Saved the Park
🚚 Ice Cream Truck Story Time
If your little ones love ice cream trucks as much as mine do, they’ll love spotting the friendly ice cream truck in my children’s book, The Trucks That Saved the Park. She’s one of the colorful truck characters who helps save the day, and she’s always a favorite with preschoolers.
Pair story time with a scoop of ice cream and you’ve got a simple National Ice Cream Day tradition your kids will remember long after the sprinkles are gone.
🍨Throw an Ice Cream Social
See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social.
Don’t miss my favorite Ice Cream Scooper… You’ll order one as soon as you see it, I swear!
The Best Ice Cream Scoop for Hard Ice Cream
Have you ever tried to scoop ice cream straight from the freezer and felt like you needed superhuman strength? I tested a regular spoon against my favorite Zeroll ice cream scoop, and the difference was pretty impressive.
Watch the quick video below to see how easily the Zeroll scoop glides through hard ice cream.
We use this scoop for family sundae nights, ice cream socials, and anytime the kids are impatiently waiting for dessert. The Zeroll scoop is designed to help soften the ice cream as you scoop, creating smooth, rounded scoops without as much struggling.
🍦 Shop the Zeroll ice cream scoop on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4yffqVn
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
For best results, hand-wash the Zeroll scoop and avoid putting it in the dishwasher.
🎂 Also don’t miss: Where to find free treats on your birthday
Try our favorite Ice Cream Word Search!
Don’t forget to grab your Ice Cream Word Search for your next flight or just hanging around the house while eating ice cream!
💸 National Ice Cream Day Deals & Freebies (2026)
Check out all the offers, contests, and sweet rewards clubs to join to get free ice cream! Remember to keep checking back, we will be updating all month long!
**If you live in Southern California - there is a Los Angeles specific section after this one! Scroll down or CLICK HERE!
After some thorough research, reaching out to my favorite ice cream places and stalking their Instagrams, here's the scoop on where to find your sweet treat! See our list of 50+ places below to find the best ice cream deals on national ice cream day.
7-Eleven
The Scoop: Cool off with a completely free small Slurpee of any flavor.
How to Get It: In-Store (Valid at any participating 7-Eleven location)
When: July 11
Wanderlust Creamery has the most unique flavors
16 Handles
The Scoop: On National Ice Cream Day, we predict 16 Handles will have an offer. Go ahead and download the 16 Handles app to keep up with their latest offers.
When: Sunday, July 19
A&W
The Scoop: Honoring National Root Beer Float Day, participating A&W Restaurants will be giving away FREE Root Beer Floats - no purchase required!
When: August 6 from 2-8pm local time
Afters Ice Cream
The Scoop: Grab a box of Afters' new ice cream "sammies," featuring Milk 'n Cookies Ice Cream sandwiched between two soft sugar cookies and loaded with festive red, white, and blue sprinkles.
How to Get It: Available in-store exclusively at Costco Wholesale locations.
When: Available now for the summer season (while supplies last).
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
The Scoop: Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with $5 hand-spun milkshakes all day long, valid on any shake option including specialty flavors and the shake of the day.
How to Get It: Available for dine-in guests.
When: Sunday, July 19
Baskin-Robbins
The Scoop: Baskin-Robbins is keeping the National Ice Cream Day party going for a full week and then some. Rewards members can score $5 off any order of $20 or more. Plus, they are keeping the momentum rolling into the following week with a special Buy-One-Get-One-Free single scoop deal.
How to Get It: Order through the Baskin-Robbins app or scan your Rewards member ID at checkout to apply the discounts.
When: The $5 off $20 offer runs from Sunday, July 19 through Saturday, July 25, 2026. The BOGO single scoop deal is valid on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
Second Scoop: Celebrate the end of the month with a sweet deal offering 31% off all ice cream purchases.
How to Get It: Available in-store exclusively for Baskin-Robbins rewards members (participation may vary by location).
When: Friday, July 31
Ben & Jerry’s
The Scoop: Catch Ben & Jerry’s special summer tour hitting major cities to score completely free ice cream.
How to Get It: Available in-person at designated tour stops in select cities like Miami and Los Angeles.
When: Available on select weekends throughout the summer.
BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse
The Scoop: BJ’s has teamed up with the Alzheimer’s Association for the "Do What You Love to End Alz" campaign. When you make a donation to help fund vital care, support, and life-changing research, they’ll thank you with a sweet reward: a coupon for a free Pizookie® to use on your next visit.
How to Get It: Make a contribution to the Alzheimer's Association during your visit to BJ's.
When: Active now (and a perfect way to top off your National Ice Cream Day celebrations!).
We predict that BJ’s will offer free Pizookie (a deep-dish-inspired cookie) when you sign up for the restaurant's Premier Rewards Plus program any day of the year! PLUS you get another one on your birthday!
Burger King
The Scoop: You can get a free Burger King soft serve cone by signing up for the Burger King Royal Perks program.
When: Sunday, July 19
Carvel
The Scoop: Carvel is embracing the messy side of sweets for National Ice Cream Day. They are giving 500 lucky people the chance to win a FREE small Carvelanche® by hosting a "Dessert Disaster" giveaway.
How to Get It: Head to the link in Carvel's social media bio to enter the contest and share your own epic dessert disaster.
When: Sunday, July 19, 2026
Second Scoop: Buy One, Get One Classic Sundae free!
When: Wednesdays in-store only at participating locations, while supplies last
Cold Stone Creamery
The Scoop: Celebrate National Ice Cream Month with their new, limited-edition Cookies 'n' Peanut Butter Ice Cream Taco or grab a $5 discount on a purchase of $10 or more.
How to Get It: Text LOVEIT26 to 568348 to opt into text messages, and the $5 off $10 coupon will be loaded directly to your rewards account; the ice cream taco can be purchased in-store or online.
When: Available throughout the entire month of July (opt-in offer expires July 31, 2026).
Creamistry
The Scoop: Join their mailing list to receive the latest special promotions, offers, and updates! All new members will receive an exclusive offer for 10% off their next order! Sign Up
🍦 See our full Creamistry Review
Crumbl Cookies
The Scoop: Crumbl is celebrating with an incredible, absolutely free giveaway—no purchase required! You can score a totally FREE Cookie Thin in one of four delicious flavors: Pink Sugar, Chocolate Chip, S'mores, or Brownie Batter. Perfect to eat with your leftover ice cream (but is that even a thing?).
How to Get It: Stop by any participating Crumbl location in-person to claim yours. It is available for in-store walk-ins only, with a limit of one free Cookie Thin per person while supplies last.
When: Monday, July 20, 2026
Dairy Queen
The Scoop: Score a free Dilly Bar with an eligible purchase of $1 or more.
How to Get It: Exclusive to DQ Rewards members via an in-app purchase in the DQ app (limit one redemption).
When: July 13–19
DashMart
The Scoop: Buy two Blue Bunny Soft Pints or Mini Swirls and save $5.
How to Get It: Available online for DashMart shoppers.
When: July 12–26
Del Taco
The Scoop: Buy one get one free shakes
When: July 19
Dippin Dots - Free Mini Cups
The Scoop: Grab a completely free mini cup of Dippin' Dots in any flavor of your choice.
How to Get It: Available in-store during a specific two-hour giveaway window (check with your local Dippin' Dots or shopping center location to confirm participation and exact hours).
Enter for a chance to win FREE Dippin' Dots for a year, along with some swag (how sweet is that?!) Sweepstakes closes on July 19, 2026 (National Ice Cream Day) - so don't wait!
When: Sunday, July 19
➡️ RELATED POST: See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social. Don’t miss my favorite Ice Cream Scooper… You’ll order one as soon as you see it, I swear!
Dolly Llama
Our Favorite Flavor: Bubble waffle Dolly's Dream - cookie monster ice cream, chocolate sauce, brownie, strawberries, and whipped cream!
🍦 Planning a visit? Read my full Dolly Llama Ice Cream review
eCreamery Ice Cream
The Scoop:Treat yourself to a premium batch of artisanal pints with a special National Ice Cream Month discount designed "for ice cream lovers only." You can save $10 on your next online order of their hand-packed, gourmet flavors.
How to Get It: Head to the eCreamery website and enter the promo code SWEETSAVE10 at checkout to redeem your $10 discount.
When: Available now throughout July for National Ice Cream Month.
Fosters Freeze
The Scoop: Relive sweet summer memories with a delicious dipped cone available for just $2.50.
How to Get It: In-Store (Available at participating Fosters Freeze locations while supplies last)
When: July 2 - 6
Friendly’s - Free Cone!
The Scoop: Celebrate both National Ice Cream Day and Friendly's 91st birthday with a free ice cream cone or dish.
How to Get It: Available to Fan Club Rewards members for in-store, online, or carryout orders.If you're not a rewards member you can join for free and get this deal.
When: Sunday, July 19
Ghirardelli Chocolate
The Scoop: Celebrate National Hot Fudge Sundae Day with a special one-day offer from Ghirardelli! On July 25, participating Ghirardelli Chocolate & Ice Cream Shops are offering a Mini World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae for just $7.25.
When: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Gopuff
The Scoop: Stock up on ice cream with a special deal offering two pints of Halo Top for just $10.
How to Get It: Available online through the Gopuff app or website.
When: July 13–19
Graeter’s
The Scoop: In celebration of National Ice Cream Day and their 156th birthday, Grater’s is giving away $1.56 single dip sugar ice cream cones! Download the Graeter's App and sign up for a new rewards account to receive a FREE CONE.
When: July 19
Haagen-Dazs
The Scoop: Buy any Sundae Series flavor, get one free for Sundae Funday Club members (rewards program)
When: On July 19 or 26
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
The Scoop: Celebrate National Ice Cream Day and score a free, limited-edition Handel’s blue baseball hat with the purchase of any ice cream item.
How to Get It: Available in-store for the first 250 guests who make an ice cream purchase; there is a strict limit of one hat per customer.
When: Sunday, July 19, 2026 (while supplies last)
Humphrey Slocombe
The Scoop: Celebrate National Ice Cream Month with two major offers: a chance to win the ultimate pairing giveaway—featuring four pints of ice cream (including the returning, wildly popular Berry Kouign Amann flavor made with Starter Bakery) and a Starter Bakery gift certificate—or score up to 15% off everything on their Goldbelly page.
How to Get It: Enter the giveaway online to win the ultimate ice cream and bakery prize pack, or visit their Goldbelly page to shop the 15% discount on nationwide shipping orders (valid for pints, seasonal flavors, and ice cream cakes, with the option to schedule future delivery dates).
When: Available now throughout National Ice Cream Month (July)
Insomnia Cookies
The Scoop: Get two scoops of ice cream for free with any $5 purchase
When: All weekend! July 17-19
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
The Scoop: In honor of National Ice Cream Day (aka today), Rewards members can top their scoops with fudge or caramel sauce at no extra cost.
Second Scoop: Dive into the season with three highly anticipated summer flavors: Campfire S’mores, Hibiscus Chili Punch Sorbet, and Strawberry Pretzel Pie. BUY 5 PINTS, GET THE 6TH FREE Use code FREEPINT on orders of 6 pints or more.
How to Get It: Available in-store by the scoop or pint, featuring unlimited samples so you can try them before you buy.
When: Available starting this weekend and all summer long.
6th free pint available 7/8-7/10
Good News: Biscuits with the Boss, the collab flavor with Ted Lasso, is coming back. Drops Tuesday 7/21 at jenis.com (starting noon ET) and in shops nationwide. We love this flavor and Ted Lasso!
Marble Slab Creamery
The Scoop: On National Ice Cream Day, Marble Slab Creamery will be offering loyalty members a free small cup of ice cream.
When: July 19
McDonalds
The Scoop: To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, McDonalds is offering $1 McFlurry creations at participating locations
When: July 19
Menchies
The Scoop: In celebration of the release of Disney’s Descendants Wicked Wonderland, the first 50 customers at participating Menchie's locations score a FREE 5oz froyo!
When: July 17 at 3 PM
My/Mochi
The Scoop: My/Mochi is giving away sweet treats on their Instagram if you tell them your favorite flavor!
Petco
The Scoop: Even pets can get in on the National Ice Cream Day deal action, with free pup cups of ice cream in-store, courtesy of participating brands.
When: July 19
Salt and Straw
The Scoop: Salt & Straw is proving that one day just isn't enough by turning National Ice Cream Day into a week-long party. They are launching a brand-new, customizable "Create Your Own Pint Sundae" experience. You get to pack a custom pint cup with three scoops of any flavors you want, pile on all the toppings, and walk away with a limited-edition sticker pack.
How to Get It: Head to your nearest Salt & Straw scoop shop to build your custom pint sundae. Sticker packs are available while supplies last.
When: Available all week long, starting today through Thursday, July 23, 2026
Sign up for their loyalty program and get some goodies!
Sky Zone
The Scoop: Jump into National Ice Cream Day with a cool treat after you bounce! The first 50 ticketed guests aged 18 and younger will score a completely free Mini Melts ice cream to fuel their fun.
How to Get It: Be one of the first 50 eligible jump ticket holders to head to the Fuel Zone counter at participating locations. Limit is one free Mini Melts per eligible guest, while supplies last.
When: Sunday, July 19, 2026
Smitten Ice Cream
The Scoop: Smitten Ice Cream has special flavors this weekend like Strawberry Lemonade, Berry Lemonade, Berry Sundae, Pistachio, and the Do-Bay Waffle!
Steak 'N Shake
The Scoop: 1/2 price shakes at Happy hour weekdays 2-5p at participating restaurants
Rewards Club: Download the Steak 'n Shake App and become a member of its loyalty program to get a free Specialty Milkshake with your first purchase as a club member. Sign-up details here.
Target
The Scoop: Buy 1 get 1 50% off select frozen desserts
When: Offer expires in July 18
TCBY
The Scoop: Sign up for TCBY‘s TCBY Insider program and get special, exclusive deals for National Ice Cream Day and beyond.
Van Leeuwen Kraft Macaroni and cheese ice cream
Van Leeuwen - Not Confirmed
The Scoop: We predict Van Leeuwen will have an offer for the special day.
Wendy’s - Free Frosty
The Scoop: If you’re a member of Wendy’s rewards program and use their app, you can score a free small Frosty-cino or small coffee with any purchase.
Whole Foods & Instacart
The Scoop: Get 50% off with Prime Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts or 45% off without Prime
When: Defrost savings on Jeni’s, GoodPop, Van Leeuwen, So Delicious and more through July 7.
Yogurtland
The Scoop: Score a completely free Yogurtland & Toy Story 5 keychain with any eligible purchase.
How to Get It: Available in-store with a minimum purchase of $20 (limit one keychain per customer per transaction, while supplies last).
When: Valid only on June 16, June 30, and July 14.
🍨 See my Amazon list for my favorite Ice Cream Gear as well as everything you need to throw an Ice Cream Social.
📍Los Angeles National Ice Cream Day Deals
Live in Los Angeles? Me too! Here are some awesome places to get free ice cream in Los Angeles on National Ice Cream Day. If you don’t live in Southern California, go to the next section!
🗺️ Also, see my favorite ice cream locations in LA ranked with a map: BEST ICE CREAM IN LA
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream - Rancho Cucamunga
The Scoop: Enter the Bruster’s Real Ice Cream SWEET-stakes for your chance to win the ultimate sweet treat 💫 Enter Here: brusters.com/sweetstakes/2026
Bruster’s is turning National Ice Cream Day into a full-weekend celebration with a massive loyalty perk. They are dishing out Double Points on all purchases, allowing Sweet Rewards members to earn a $5 reward for every $25 spent.
How to Get It: Make a purchase online or in-store using your Sweet Rewards account to automatically rack up double the points on your treats.
When: Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19, 2026
Carmela Ice Cream Co
Capri Gelato and Coffee
The Scoop: Visit their new Hermosa Beach location!
Flavor of the week: Peaches and Cream 🍑
Carmela Ice Cream Co.
The Scoop: Learn how to make artisan ice cream this summer.
Carmela is offering a limited summer series (just one class each month) focusing on their famous Strawberry Buttermilk ice cream and Lemon Basil sorbet.
Fosselman’s Ice Cream
The Scoop: Summer flavors are here!
Frozen Fruit Co
The Scoop: Raspberry Truffle Plant-Based "ice cream" - made from a creamy raspberry base of coconut cream, raspberry, and organic blue agave with swirls of our signature dark chocolate (organic coconut oil, cocoa, and date) and an additional oomph of raspberry powder.
When: Available until this Friday
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams
The Scoop: Buy any 3 pints get the 4th one FREE - in store offer
National Ice Cream Day called... it said "treat yourself." Flash Sale is live - 15% off sitewide
When: July 17 through July 19.
I highly recommend trying their See’s Candies collaboration! Brown Sugar Bordeaux is my fave!
Rori's Artisanal Creamery
The Scoop: Celebrate the sweetest day of the year with a double dose of your favorite treats. Rori's is offering a free upgrade to a double scoop when you purchase any single scoop—giving you the perfect excuse to pair a classic favorite with their festive July flavor, Star-Spangled Banner.
How to Get It: Stop by any participating Rori's location and order a single scoop to get your complimentary second scoop.
When: Sunday, July 19 (National Ice Cream Day).
The Scoop: The Scoop: Celebrate July with the festive, limited-edition "Star-Spangled Banner" flavor, and grab a holiday weekend deal where you buy any pint and get a second pint for just $2.50.
How to Get It: Available in-store for mix-and-match pint purchases (toppings like seasonal sprinkles and a mini American flag are included while supplies last).
When: The BOGO pint offer runs from July 1–4, while the featured monthly flavor is available throughout July.
Our Favorite Flavors: Honey Almond Crunch, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee
🍦Read our full Rori’s Ice Cream review
Sidecar Doughnuts
The Scoop: Donuts and Vanleeuwen Ice Cream join forces! Pick your favorite doughnut and ice cream for the ultimate combo!
When: At all California shops on Saturday, July 18th
SWEET ROSE CREAMERY
The Scoop: Join their Loyalty Program, for every $1 you spend at the Brentwood Country Mart shop, you earn 10 points, which goes towards a free pint of your choice!
TWO Scoops a Day, All Year Long: Stop by our Brentwood Country Mart shop any day in 2026 for a two Scoops of ice cream! Simply check in with your Blackbird account using your cell phone — choosing a flavor will be the hardest part!
See National Ice Cream Day Deals at Wanderlust Creamery
Wanderlust Creamery - BOGO
The Scoop: We predict Wanderlust will have an offer coming up!
🍦 See our favorite flavors in our full Wanderlust Creamery review
🎪 National Ice Cream Day Events & Festivals
Sprinkle Pool - Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles
MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM
Locations: Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Miami, Singapore & New York
How about a visit to the Museum of Ice Cream? Make sure you buy tickets in advance! Unlimited ice cream, over 14 interactive playscapes, exclusive treats, and a sprinkle pool - what could be better?!
A NEW LOCATION is opening soon in Los Angeles! See our post from the last time MOIC was in LA!
ICE CREAM ALLEY at Smorgasburg LA
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Ice Cream Alley, Smorgasburg’s ultimate summertime showcase of Los Angeles' best independent ice cream makers. For a decade, this spot has been the launchpad for iconic local brands like Wanderlust Creamery and Happy Ice. This year, a brand-new class of vendors joins the lineup for a summer-long dessert crawl alongside Smorgasburg’s usual 60+ food and shopping vendors, DJs, and family activities.
The 2026 Vendor Lineup:
🍦 SadGirl Creamery: Latin inspired nostalgic creations including their fan favorite, Ice Cream Tacos (Try the popular Strawberry Tres Leches Shortcake Taco)
🍨 Moom Maam: Thai flavors meets mad scientist creations for one of a kind flavors like Thai Tea, Atole de Maiz, Buckwheat Soba and much more!
🍧 Bernie’s: Italian Ice made with fresh fruit and toasted meringue.
🍦 Churros El Bochito: Fresh fried churros topped with ice cream served from a Dodger themed VW Bug
🍨 Sweet Lady Jane: Beloved LA bakeshop debuts their new gelato.
🍧 Boutcha Gelatea: Where the art of tea brewing meets artisan gelato craftsmanship.
🍨 Bestie's Vegan Paradise : Vegan grocery store serving vegan ice cream
🍦 Swrlies : Drill your own mix of real fruit fray or ice cream.
🍧 Innamorata Gelato : Italian gelato infused with LA flair.
📅 Don't Miss: The Great Ice Cream Fair on July 19! It’s Smorgasburg's biggest family party of the summer, packed with exclusive one-day-only treats and activities
When: Sundays, July 5 – September 6 | 10 AM – 4 PM | ROW DTLA
Ice Cream Made Here Sign at Ginger’s Divine Ice Cream
🚚 Ice Cream Delivery Deals
Don't want to go anywhere? Don't fret, you can get ice cream delivered to your front door!
DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates will also deliver sweet ice cream from places like Carmela Ice Cream Co or Sweet Rose Creamery!
🍦 Make Homemade Ice Cream
I love making my own ice cream! Check out the best ice cream makers and starter kits at Williams Sonoma!
Every good scoop from home deserves a good scooper!
Ninja
The Scoop: The Ninja CREAMi is currently $50 off!
Where to Get it: Amazon https://amzn.to/4vwrkri
To throw the BEST Ice Cream Social you need an Ice Cream Garland and our MUST HAVE Scoop! Check out our Amazon Shopping list!
National Ice Cream Day Deals 2026: 50+ Free Offers including Afters Ice Cream
📜 History of National Ice Cream Day
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan declared the third week of July to be National Ice Cream Day along with July known as National Ice Cream Month by signing proclamation 5219. In this proclamation, the president called ice cream the perfect dessert and snack food and stated that over 90 percent of Americans enjoy it on a regular basis. He also stated that Americans should observe this day with activities and celebrations. So let's party, it's basically the law.
Now, let's EAT!
❓ National Ice Cream Day FAQs
Is National Ice Cream Day always the third Sunday in July?
Yes! National Ice Cream Day is celebrated every year on the third Sunday in July as part of National Ice Cream Month. In 2026, it falls on Sunday, July 19.
Which ice cream shops give away free ice cream on National Ice Cream Day?
Many popular ice cream shops celebrate with free scoops, discounts, buy-one-get-one offers, or rewards for loyalty members. Participating brands often include Baskin-Robbins, Dippin’ Dots, Carvel, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and local scoop shops. Since offers vary each year, be sure to check your favorite location before you go.
Is National Ice Cream Month the same as National Ice Cream Day?
No. National Ice Cream Month is celebrated throughout July, while National Ice Cream Day is one special day during the month—the third Sunday in July.
Does every Baskin-Robbins participate in National Ice Cream Day?
Not always. Because many Baskin-Robbins locations are independently owned franchises, promotions may vary by store. Check with your local shop or the Baskin-Robbins app before visiting.
What are fun ways to celebrate National Ice Cream Day with kids?
Celebrate by visiting a local ice cream shop, making homemade ice cream, creating a DIY sundae bar, chasing the neighborhood ice cream truck, or having an ice cream picnic at your favorite park. It’s an easy way to make sweet summer memories together.
When is National Ice Cream Day in 2027?
National Ice Cream Day in 2027 falls on Sunday, July 18, 2027. Like every year, it will be celebrated on the third Sunday in July, making it easy to plan your family’s favorite ice cream tradition.
****All offers may subject to change. Offers were researched by contacting shops directly or taken from their websites/social media.
Please share in the comments below where you are celebrating! See you for some #sundayfunday or as I like to call it, #sudaefundae
This post was made from my love for ice cream and National Ice Cream Day! Please help me by sharing with your friends on social media!
National Ice Cream Day Deals 2026: 50+ Free Offers
MORE ICE CREAM POSTS? Yes PLEASE!!!
Best Beaches in Maui for Kids, Toddlers & Families
Looking for the best beaches in Maui for kids? Discover calm, shallow beaches with easy parking, bathrooms, and toddler-friendly waves.
Airport Beach is a great beach in Maui for toddlers
Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
Finding the perfect beach in Maui with little ones can make all the difference. While Maui is full of beautiful beaches, not all of them are ideal for babies, toddlers, or younger kids.
When we’re looking for a family-friendly beach, we usually look for a few key things:
✔️ Calm water
✔️ A shallow entry into the ocean
✔️ Easy parking
✔️ Nearby bathrooms
We’ve been visiting Maui almost every year since 2013 and have explored beaches all over the island through different stages of life—from trips as a couple to vacations with two energetic little boys. We even spent an entire month living on Maui in 2021, giving us plenty of time to experience these beaches beyond a typical one-week vacation. These are the beaches our family keeps coming back to.
| Beach | Best For | Waves | Parking | Bathrooms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honokōwai Beach Park | Babies & toddlers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Calm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Kapalua Bay | Toddlers & snorkeling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gentle | ⭐⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Airport Beach | Young kids | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Gentle | ⭐⭐ | ✅ |
| Kaʻanapali Beach | Older kids & boogie boarding | ⭐⭐ More waves | ⭐⭐ | ✅ |
Kaʻanapali Beach is great for big kids who can swim really well
Kaʻanapali Beach
Kaʻanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most famous beaches, and for good reason. The water is crystal clear, the sand is soft, and there is plenty to do nearby. While it isn’t the calmest beach on the island, it’s perfect for older kids who love swimming, body boarding, or playing in the waves.
📍 Location: Fronting the Kaʻanapali Resort area near Whalers Village.
👶 Kid Friendly: Great for confident swimmers and older kids. The waves can be a lot of fun for boogie boarding, and there is plenty of room to spread out on the sand.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: Better for toddlers who enjoy playing in the sand rather than spending lots of time in the water. Depending on ocean conditions, the waves can become fairly strong.
🚗 Parking: There are a few free public parking lots, but they fill up quickly. If they’re full, parking at Whalers Village or one of the nearby resorts is usually the easiest option.
🚻 Amenities: Restrooms, restaurants, shopping, shaded walkways, and easy access to food and ice cream make this one of the most convenient beaches for families.
Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park) is good for little kids or toddlers with a shallow entry
Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park)
Airport Beach quickly became one of our favorite spots for little kids. Compared to Kaʻanapali Beach, the waves tend to be a little gentler with a shallower entry, making it a great place for toddlers to splash around.
Our boys loved running toward the waves as they rolled onto the shore and then racing away before the water could catch them. We probably spent an hour doing nothing but that!
📍 Location: Just north of Kaʻanapali near the Westin Nanea and Sheraton resorts.
👶 Kid Friendly: A wonderful beach for younger kids who want to play near the shoreline.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: One of our favorite beaches for toddlers thanks to the calmer water and gradual entry into the ocean.
🚗 Parking: There is a free public parking lot, but it’s fairly small and fills early. If you park near the Sheraton, be prepared for a longer walk to the beach.
🚻 Amenities: Public restrooms and showers are available nearby.
Kapalua Bay is the best beach for toddlers and babies.
Kapalua Bay
If you’re traveling with younger kids, Kapalua Bay is hard to beat. The crescent-shaped bay naturally protects the beach from larger waves, creating calmer water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
One of our favorite discoveries was walking over the grassy hill on the side of the bay where we spotted sea turtles resting on the rocks. It became one of the highlights of our trip.
📍 Location: North of Napili Bay in Kapalua.
👶 Kid Friendly: Excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and floating in calmer water.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: One of the best beaches on Maui for toddlers thanks to the protected bay and softer waves.
🚗 Parking: There is a public parking lot across the street, but it fills up quickly. Arriving early in the morning makes parking much easier.
🚻 Amenities: Public bathrooms, showers, nearby restaurants, and grassy areas for picnics.
Honokōwai Beach Park
Honokōwai Beach Park
Honokōwai Beach Park is one of Maui’s hidden gems for families with babies and toddlers.
A rock reef protects much of the shoreline, creating a calm, shallow pool where even little ones can safely splash and play. It almost feels more like a natural kiddie pool than the ocean.
The best part? There’s also a playground just steps from the sand, making it easy to switch between beach time and playtime.
📍 Location: Between Kaʻanapali and Napili along Lower Honoapiʻilani Road.
👶 Kid Friendly: Great for kids of all ages thanks to the combination of a calm beach and playground.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: Probably our favorite beach for babies and toddlers. The protected water is incredibly calm, and the playground is an added bonus for little ones who need a break from the sand.
🚗 Parking: Free parking lot adjacent to the park, with additional street parking nearby.
🚻 Amenities: Public restrooms, picnic tables, grassy areas, playground, outdoor showers, and easy beach access.
D.T. Fleming Beach Park next to The Burger Shack - great for big waves
D.T. Fleming Beach Park
D.T. Fleming Beach is one of our favorite beaches to relax while the kids play in the sand. It’s located just below the Ritz-Carlton, and one of our favorite Maui lunch spots, The Burger Shack, is only a short walk away. We often grab burgers and then spend the afternoon letting the boys run around on the beach.
The waves here are usually much bigger than some of the other beaches on this list, so we don’t recommend it for little ones who want to swim. Instead, it’s a great place to build sandcastles, chase waves along the shoreline, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
📍 Location: North Kapalua, below the Ritz-Carlton Maui.
👶 Kid Friendly: Great for playing in the sand, flying kites, and running along the beach.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: Better for sand play than swimming because the shore break can be fairly strong.
🚗 Parking: Large public parking lot with easy beach access.
🚻 Amenities: Restrooms, showers, picnic areas, lifeguards, and The Burger Shack just steps away.
Waiʻānapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach) - best beach on the Road to Hana
Waiʻānapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)
One of our favorite stops on the Road to Hana is the stunning black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. Even if you don’t spend much time in the water, it’s absolutely worth visiting.
Our boys love exploring the black sand, watching the waves crash against the shoreline, and running back before the water reaches them. We usually pack a lunch and enjoy one of the picnic tables before exploring the trails around the park. The paved paths also make it fairly stroller-friendly for much of the area.
Be sure to reserve your entry time in advance, as reservations are required for both parking and admission. (Tripadvisor)
📍 Location: Waiʻānapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana.
👶 Kid Friendly: Perfect for exploring, hiking, tide pools (when conditions allow), and enjoying one of Maui’s most unique beaches.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: Great for sightseeing and short walks. The waves and rocky shoreline make it less ideal for swimming with little ones.
🚗 Parking: Large parking lot available with advance reservations.
🚻 Amenities: Public restrooms, picnic tables, walking trails, and scenic overlooks.
Palauea Beach (White Rock Beach)
If you’re looking for a quieter beach away from the larger resorts, Palauea Beach is a wonderful hidden gem. The small coves along the shoreline make it feel like you have your own little section of beach.
After spending some time at the beach, continue driving south toward La Perouse Bay and the Hoapili Trail. This area is covered in ancient lava fields, and we’ve almost always spotted wild black goats wandering through the rocks. It became one of our boys’ favorite unexpected Maui adventures!
📍 Location: Just south of Wailea along Mākena Road.
👶 Kid Friendly: Great for exploring quieter coves and enjoying a less crowded beach.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: Nice for sand play, though parents should keep an eye on changing surf conditions.
🚗 Parking: Small public parking lot with a short walk to the beach.
🚻 Amenities: Limited amenities, so plan ahead before arriving.
Baby beach near Mala Ramp is a great beach in Maui for babies and toddlers
Baby Beach
Baby Beach is one of the most recommended beaches on Maui for families with babies and toddlers, and it’s definitely on our list for our next trip. A reef protects the shoreline, creating calm, shallow water that’s ideal for little ones to splash and play.
While we haven’t spent time at Baby Beach itself, we have visited the area several times for scuba diving out of Mala Ramp. There’s a dirt parking lot near the boat ramp, and from what we’ve read, that’s now the recommended access point to Baby Beach as Lahaina continues to rebuild following the 2023 wildfires. If you decide to visit, be respectful of the community, follow posted signs, and use the north entrance near Mala Ramp.
📍 Location: North Lahaina, near Mala Ramp.
👶 Kid Friendly: Calm, protected water makes this one of the most popular beaches for young families.
🍼 Toddler/Baby Friendly: One of the best beaches on Maui for babies and toddlers thanks to the shallow, reef-protected lagoon.
🚗 Parking: Dirt parking lot near Mala Ramp. Arrive early, especially during busy travel seasons.
🚻 Amenities: Limited amenities, so come prepared with water, snacks, and beach gear.
Our Favorite Maui Beach for Toddlers
If you’re visiting Maui with babies or toddlers, our top picks would be:
🥇 Honokōwai Beach Park – Best overall for babies and toddlers thanks to the calm, shallow water and playground.
🥈 Kapalua Bay – Beautiful protected bay with gentle waves and a chance to spot sea turtles.
🥉 Airport Beach – A quieter alternative to Kaʻanapali with a more gradual entry into the water.
For older kids who love jumping in the waves (or an adventurous dive off Black Rock) or trying a boogie board, Kaʻanapali Beach is still one of the most fun beaches on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach in Maui for toddlers?
Our favorite beach for toddlers is Honokōwai Beach Park. The reef creates a calm, shallow area that's almost like a natural swimming pool, and the playground is just steps from the sand. It's the perfect combination for little ones who need a break from the beach.
Which Maui beach has the calmest water for kids?
For calm water, we recommend Honokōwai Beach Park, Kapalua Bay, and Baby Beach. These beaches are protected from large waves, making them excellent choices for younger children.
What beach in Maui has a playground?
Honokōwai Beach Park is one of our favorite family beaches because it has both a playground and a protected beach. It's a great place to spend an entire morning with babies, toddlers, or preschoolers.
Are Maui beaches safe for babies?
Many Maui beaches are great for babies, but ocean conditions can change daily. We always recommend checking the surf before getting in the water and choosing beaches with calmer, protected coves such as Honokōwai Beach Park, Kapalua Bay, or Baby Beach.
Which Maui beach is best for boogie boarding?
For older kids, Kāʻanapali Beach is our favorite. Depending on the day's conditions, the waves are often perfect for body boarding and splashing around.
Which Maui beach is best for snorkeling with kids?
Kapalua Bay is one of the best places to snorkel with kids because the bay is naturally protected, making the water calmer and easier to explore. Keep an eye out for sea turtles around the rocks!
Which Maui beaches have bathrooms?
Most of the beaches on this list have nearby public restrooms, including:
Honokōwai Beach Park
Kapalua Bay
Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park)
D.T. Fleming Beach Park
Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Do I need reservations for the Black Sand Beach?
Yes. Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires advance reservations for both entry and parking. We highly recommend booking your reservation before your trip, especially during busy travel seasons.
What is the best beach in Maui for families?
If we had to choose just one, we'd recommend Honokōwai Beach Park. Between the calm water, playground, bathrooms, picnic tables, and easy parking, it's the beach our family returns to again and again.
How many days do you need in Maui with kids?
We recommend spending at least 5–7 days in Maui if you're traveling with kids. That gives you enough time to enjoy several beach days, explore the Road to Hana, relax by the pool, and avoid feeling rushed. If you're lucky enough to stay longer, even better—we've been visiting Maui since 2013 and even spent an entire month on the island in 2021, and we still find new places to explore!
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3-Day Santa Cruz Itinerary with Kids: The Best Things to Do, Eat & Stay
Planning a family trip to Santa Cruz? Here's our exact 3-day Santa Cruz itinerary with toddlers, including redwoods, trains, beaches, playgrounds, restaurants, and hotel recommendations.
Checking out the redwood trees in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
3-Day Santa Cruz Itinerary with Young Kids
The first time I visited Santa Cruz was about 15 years ago, and let's just say it was a very different kind of trip.
Fast forward to today, and we're exploring Surf City with two high-energy little boys who don't nap and need constant activity to avoid a complete meltdown.
If that sounds familiar, this itinerary is for you.
We recently spent three days in Santa Cruz with our 2- and 4-year-old boys and packed our trip with redwood forests, steam trains, mini golf, beaches, playgrounds, ice cream, and plenty of opportunities to burn energy. Santa Cruz turned out to be one of our favorite California family destinations because there is so much to do within a short drive.
Here's exactly what we did, where we ate, where we stayed, and what I'd recommend for families visiting Santa Cruz with young kids.
Find Banana Slugs with kids near the Redwood Trees in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Why Santa Cruz is Great for Young Kids
Santa Cruz is one of those rare destinations that has a little bit of everything:
✔ Beaches and tide pools
✔ Redwoods and nature walks
✔ Trains and playgrounds
✔ The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
✔ Family-friendly restaurants
✔ Easy day trips nearby
Most attractions are within 15-20 minutes of each other, making it easy to fill your day without spending hours in the car.
Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz with Young Kids
Neptune's Kingdom Mini Golf - Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Neptune's Kingdom Mini Golf
📍 Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk)
⏰ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
👶 Best for: Ages 3+
💲 Cost: Paid attraction
⭐ Our Favorite? Yes!
Located at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Neptune's Kingdom is an 18-hole indoor pirate-themed mini golf course that was a huge hit with our boys.
Cannons randomly fire, seagulls pop out from hidden doors, and several holes feature glow-in-the-dark effects that kept the kids completely entertained.
If you're looking for a break from the sun or something fun to do after dinner, this is a great family activity.
Parent Tip: The course is indoors, making it a perfect option on chilly evenings or rainy days.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
📍 Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 3–6 hours
👶 Best for: All ages
💲 Cost: Free to enter; ride tickets or wristbands required for rides
⭐ Our Favorite? Absolutely!
Even if your kids are too small for the big roller coasters, there are still plenty of rides geared toward younger children.
Our boys especially loved the smaller rides and watching the Giant Dipper race overhead. Before your visit, be sure to check the current height requirements so you know which attractions your kids can ride.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
📍 Location: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018
⏰ Time Needed: 1–2 hours
👶 Best for: Toddlers & Preschoolers
💲 Cost: California State Park day-use parking fee
⭐ Our Favorite? Yes!
Just a short drive from downtown Santa Cruz, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park was one of our favorite stops of the trip.
The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is flat, easy for little legs, and stroller-friendly. The giant redwood trees are impressive even for young kids.
Parent tip: Turn the hike into a scavenger hunt and see if your kids can spot a Banana Slug. Ours became completely determined to find one and it kept them engaged for the entire walk. We found several Banana Slugs around 10:00 a.m. while the forest was still cool and damp. Check around the bases of large redwood trees where it's shady and moist.
Roaring Camp Railroads train stop
Roaring Camp Railroads
📍 Location: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018
⏰ Time Needed: 2–3 hours
👶 Best for: All ages
💲 Cost: Paid attraction
⭐ Our Favorite? Definitely!
Located right next to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Roaring Camp Railroads is a must for families with young train lovers.
The historic steam train winds through towering redwood forests, crossing bridges and climbing into the mountains. It was easily one of the highlights of our trip.
This was easily one of the highlights of our trip. If your kids love trains, don't skip this one.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
📍 Location: 35 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
👶 Best for: Toddlers & Elementary-age kids
💲 Cost: Free
⭐ Our Favorite? Great rainy-day or break-from-the-beach activity!
Don't expect an aquarium—there aren't any live animals here—but don't let that stop you from visiting.
The Exploration Center is completely free and packed with hands-on exhibits designed for kids. Our boys loved creating waves, building a magnetic kelp forest, listening to underwater marine animal sounds, and using magnetic fishing poles to learn about recycling and ocean conservation.
It's a fun indoor stop if you need a break from the beach or are looking for something educational.
Parent Tip: The center closes at 4:00 p.m., so plan to visit earlier in the day.
Santa Cruz Wharf
📍 Location: 21 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 1–2 hours
👶 Best for: All ages
💲 Cost: Free to visit
⭐ Our Favorite? Yes—don't skip it!
Conveniently across from Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, take a stroll down the wharf!
Even if you don't plan to eat here, the Wharf is worth visiting. The boys kept looking over the railings to watch the sea lions lounging and barking beneath the pier. There are also candy shops, souvenir stores, restaurants, and beautiful views of the beach and Boardwalk.
Santa Cruz Riverwalk Playground - Serpent Slide
Santa Cruz Riverwalk Playground
📍 Location: San Lorenzo Riverwalk, Santa Cruz, CA
⏰ Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
👶 Best for: Toddlers & Preschoolers
💲 Cost: Free
⭐ Our Favorite? Great energy burner before dinner!
If your kids still have energy to burn (ours always do!), the Santa Cruz Riverwalk Playground is a great stop.
Located near downtown, this neighborhood playground has plenty of room to climb, slide, and run around before heading to dinner or back to the hotel. It became the perfect late-afternoon reset for our family after a busy day of sightseeing.
Leo's Haven at Chanticleer County Park
📍 Location: 1935 Chanticleer Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
⏰ Time Needed: 1–2 hours
👶 Best for: Toddlers & Preschoolers
💲 Cost: Free
⭐ Our Favorite? One of the best playgrounds!
Leo's Haven is absolutely worth the short drive.
This massive farm-themed playground is fully fenced, making it perfect for little explorers. There are climbing structures, slides, swings, sensory play areas, and plenty of room for kids to burn off energy.
If you're traveling with young children, I'd put this near the top of your list.
Neary Lagoon
📍 Location: Bay St & California St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
👶 Best for: All ages
💲 Cost: Free
⭐ Our Favorite? A peaceful hidden gem.
Neary Lagoon is one of Santa Cruz's hidden gems.
The floating boardwalk winds through a peaceful freshwater marsh where kids can look for ducks, turtles, fish, and birds. It's an easy walk for little legs and offers a nice change of pace from the busy Boardwalk.
If your kids enjoy spotting wildlife, this is a fun and relaxing stop.
Where to Eat with Kids in Santa Cruz
One thing we loved about Santa Cruz was how easy it was to find casual, family-friendly restaurants. With a toddler and preschooler, we usually prioritize quick service, outdoor seating, and kid-approved food over anything fancy.
El Hermoso Mar
📍 Location: 45 Municipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
👨👩👧👦 Good For: Lunch or dinner with kids
💲 Price: $$
⭐ Our Favorite? Yes!
This was one of our favorite meals of the trip. Located near the harbor, El Hermoso Mar serves delicious Mexican food with plenty of options for kids. Our boys happily devoured tacos and quesadillas while we enjoyed a more flavorful meal than the typical kid-friendly chain restaurant.
If the weather is nice, grab your food and enjoy the harbor views nearby while the kids stretch their legs.
The Picnic Basket
📍 Location: 125 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
⏰ Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
👨👩👧👦 Good For: Breakfast or lunch before the beach
💲 Price: $$
⭐ Our Favorite? Great quick stop!
Located across from Main Beach, The Picnic Basket is perfect before or after a beach day.
They offer a dedicated kids menu and serve casual favorites like sandwiches, salads, and grilled cheese. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it an easy choice when everyone is hungry and ready for a quick meal.
Bonus: They also serve scoops from Penny Ice Creamery.
The Crow's Nest
📍 Location: 2218 E Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
⏰ Time Needed: 1–1½ hours
👨👩👧👦 Good For: Family dinner with harbor views
💲 Price: $$$
⭐ Our Favorite? Beautiful location!
If you're looking for a sit-down restaurant with a view, The Crow's Nest is a great family option.
Overlooking the harbor, it offers beautiful waterfront views while still being welcoming to families with young children. One of the highlights for kids is the treasure chest they can choose a prize from after their meal—a simple touch that our boys would absolutely love.
Penny Ice Creamery in Downtown Santa Cruz
Best Ice Cream in Santa Cruz
No family trip to Santa Cruz is complete without ice cream.
Penny Ice Creamery
📍 Location: Multiple locations (we visited the Downtown Santa Cruz location)
⏰ Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
🍦 Known For: House-made ice cream & toasted marshmallow fluff
💲 Price: $
⭐ Our Favorite? Absolutely!
If you only visit one ice cream shop in Santa Cruz, make it Penny Ice Creamery.
Their handcrafted ice cream is delicious, but the real star is the famous toasted marshmallow fluff they torch right on top of your scoop. Watching the marshmallow being toasted was almost as exciting for our boys as eating the ice cream itself.
There are multiple locations throughout Santa Cruz, but we especially liked the downtown location during our visit.
Marianne's Ice Cream
📍 Location: Multiple locations (we visited the Ocean Street location)
⏰ Time Needed: 20–30 minutes
🍦 Known For: Dozens of classic and unique ice cream flavors
💲 Price: $
⭐ Our Favorite? A Santa Cruz classic!
A Santa Cruz institution, Marianne's has been serving ice cream for generations.
They offer dozens of flavors ranging from classic favorites to more unique local specialties. If everyone in your family likes something different, Marianne's is a great choice because there are so many options to choose from.
It's one of those places that feels like a classic beach-town tradition.
Where to Stay in Santa Cruz with Young Kids
We stayed at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz and it worked really well for our family.
The rooms were spacious enough for our two boys to play and unwind after a full day of activities, which is always a huge win when traveling with young kids. We also appreciated the heated pool, outdoor fire pits, and complimentary breakfast each morning.
The location made it easy to access both downtown Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk while still providing a comfortable place to recharge at the end of the day.
For families looking for a reliable hotel with plenty of space and family-friendly amenities, I would definitely consider staying here.
→ See our full review here: Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Our boys are too big for cribs but not quite ready for regular hotel beds, so we brought our inflatable toddler beds. The room had plenty of floor space to comfortably fit both beds without feeling cramped.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
3-Day Itinerary in Santa Cruz with Kids
If you have active kids who need constant stimulation to avoid a meltdown, Santa Cruz is an absolute playground. Because our boys don't nap, we packed our schedule full of redwoods, roller coasters, and beach days. Here is our exact, tried-and-tested 3-day Santa Cruz itinerary for active families.
Day 1: Tacos, Tide Air, & Twilight Mini Golf
1:00 PM – Land at San Jose Airport (SJC): Grab your rental car or bags. The drive from SJC to Santa Cruz takes about 45 minutes winding through the scenic Highway 17.
2:00 PM – Check-In at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz: We chose this as our base camp because it’s centrally located and offers crucial perks for families (more on that in our hotel review!).
3:00 PM – Neptune’s Kingdom at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk: Skip the big roller coasters on arrival day if the kids are tired from travel, and head straight for a 10-minute walk to the boardwalk. We played 18 holes of pirate-themed mini golf at Neptune’s Kingdom.
Tip for parents: A few of the holes glow in the dark, which is a massive hit for high-stimulation kids.
6:00 PM – Beachside Dinner at El Hermoso Mar: Instead of a formal sit-down restaurant, grab quick tacos and quesadillas here. Walk your food over to the Aloha Terrace Group Picnic Area. It’s the perfect spot to watch boats sail by and beach volleyball games while the kids burn off their remaining energy running in the sand.
7:00 PM – Walk Back & Wind Down: Walk back to the Hyatt Place to start the bedtime routine before day two.
Day 2: Redwoods, Steam Trains, & Marine Life
8:00 AM – Fuel Up: Take advantage of the free hot breakfast at the hotel to save time and money.
9:00 AM – Hike Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Head inland to the mountains (about a 15-20 minute drive). Do the Redwood Grove Loop Trail. It’s completely flat, stroller-friendly, and lets the kids climb inside massive, hollowed-out Redwood trees.
Active Kid Challenge: Challenge your kids to spot a Banana Slug 🐌 on the forest floor. It kept our boys completely locked in and hunting along the trail!
10:30 AM – Roaring Camp Railroads: Right next door to the park is Roaring Camp. We hopped on the authentic steam train for a ride through the mountain forest. It’s loud, exciting, and highly engaging for kids who love trains
12:30 PM – Lunch at Georgie’s Cook House: Located right inside Roaring Camp. Expect theme-park pricing, but it's convenient: it cost us about $40 for a standard kid-friendly spread of chicken nuggets, hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries.
2:00 PM – Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center: Head back down to the beach. This center features interactive exhibits, and admission is completely free.
Note: They close at 4:00 PM, so make sure you don't arrive too late!
3:30 PM – Stroll the Santa Cruz Wharf: Walk right outside the exploration center onto the historic wharf to look for sunbathing sea lions barking under the pier.
4:00 PM – Hotel Recharge: A quick reset, snack, and outfit change back at the room.
5:00 PM – Santa Cruz Riverwalk Playground: If your kids still have energy to burn before dinner, walk over to this local playground to let them climb.
6:15 PM – Dinner: We kept it simple and ate back at the hotel to keep the mood relaxed.
7:00 PM – Dessert at The Penny Ice Creamery: You cannot leave Santa Cruz without trying this spot. They make everything from scratch, and getting a scoop topped with their famous toasted marshmallow fluff is the ultimate reward for a packed day.
Day 3: A Sweet Goodbye to Surf City
8:00 AM – Free Breakfast at Hyatt Place: One last round of free breakfast to fuel up for the road ahead.
9:30 AM – Hit the Road: Pack up the car and begin the scenic drive down the California coast!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Santa Cruz with Kids
Is Santa Cruz good for toddlers and preschoolers?
Yes! Santa Cruz has a great mix of beaches, playgrounds, nature walks, trains, and family-friendly attractions. We visited with a 2- and 4-year-old and found plenty to keep them entertained for three full days.
How many days do you need in Santa Cruz with kids?
We found that three days was the perfect amount of time. It gave us enough time to visit the Boardwalk, ride the Roaring Camp train, explore the redwoods, enjoy the beach, and still have time for ice cream and playground stops.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
What are the best things to do in Santa Cruz with young kids?
Some of our favorite activities included:
Roaring Camp Railroads
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Neptune's Kingdom Mini Golf
Leo's Haven Playground
Santa Cruz Wharf
Penny Ice Creamery
Is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk good for toddlers?
Yes, although many rides have height requirements. There are several rides designed specifically for younger children, plus arcade games, mini golf, and the beach right next door.
Where should families stay in Santa Cruz?
We stayed at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz and found it to be a great option for families. The spacious rooms, heated pool, free breakfast, and convenient location worked well for our trip.
What is the best ice cream in Santa Cruz?
Two local favorites are Penny Ice Creamery and Marianne's Ice Cream. Penny is famous for its toasted marshmallow fluff topping, while Marianne's offers dozens of classic and unique flavors.
When is the best time to visit Santa Cruz with kids?
Spring, summer, and early fall are all great times to visit. We visited in spring and enjoyed mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Can you visit Santa Cruz without riding the big roller coasters?
Absolutely. Our kids were far too young for most of the larger rides, and we still filled three days with family-friendly activities including mini golf, train rides, beaches, playgrounds, redwood hikes, and ice cream stops.
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Guide to the Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck 2026 (Thousand Oaks)
Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM! The Trucks That Saved team is packing up the gear, loading the inventory, and heading to the highly anticipated CRPD Touch-a-Truck event at the Thousand Oaks Community Center field. Admission is completely free. Stop by our booth to say hi, shop physical copies of our children's book and coloring book series, and enter to WIN a free book set!
Firetruck attended last year’s touch-a-truck event in Thousand Oaks, that children could climb in and explore the inside of a firetruck
We’re Rolling Out to Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck! 🚛✨
Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 20, 2026! The Trucks that Saved team is packing up the gear, loading up the inventory, and heading to the highly anticipated Conejo Valley Recreation and Park District (CRPD) Touch-a-Truck event!
If you have a little one who is absolutely obsessed with big rigs, sirens, and things that go vroom, this is the ultimate family day out. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Touch-a-truck is coming soon to Thousand Oaks and the Conejo Valley
Come Say Hi at Our Booth! 👋
We had so much fun attending last year, we are honored to participate this year!
We will have a dedicated booth set up all day, and we would absolutely love for our friends, readers, and fellow truck lovers to stop by and hang out.
We’re bringing along the heartbeat of our family business—our children's book series! You'll be able to get your hands on physical copies of:
The Trucks That Saved the Park Storybook: Meet the hard-working truck team and dive into a story all about teamwork, community, and helping others.
The Trucks That Saved the ParkColoring Book: Perfect for keeping those little hands creative and engaged on the ride home!
Grab a Free Activity Sheet! 🧩
To make the day even more interactive for your mini "world-schoolers," we are giving away a Free Touch-a-Truck Scavenger Hunt Sheet right at our booth (The Trucks that Saved Series)!
Before you head out to climb inside the massive fire engines, construction trucks, and dump trucks, swing by our table to grab a sheet. It’s a great way to turn the event into an educational adventure, challenging your kids to spot different real-life community heroes as you explore the field.
Event Details at a Glance:
What: CRPD Touch-a-Truck 2026
When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where:Thousand Oaks Community Center, located at 2525 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Admission: Free!
What types of trucks and vehicles can we expect to see?
Last year there was an incredible lineup of real-life community helpers at the event and this year is on par!
The Road Crew: Concrete Mixer, Skip Loader, Excavator, and Tractor.
The Emergency & Security Heroes: Firetruck, Police Motorcycle, and Security Truck.
The High-Reach & Utility Helpers: Cherry Picker, Trash Truck, Forestry Truck, Hydro Truck, Tow Truck, Bobcat, and a School Bus.
⚠️ Important Note for Families: While these specific trucks may be scheduled to appear, the lineup is subject to change without notice. Real-life helper trucks occasionally get called away for community emergencies, maintenance, or unexpected scheduling shifts. We appreciate your understanding as we work to keep our community safe and our events moving smoothly!
You might even be able to operate a real construction truck
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions: CRPD Touch-a-Truck 2026
Before you pack up the diaper bag and head out to the Thousand Oaks Community Center field, here is everything you need to know to pace your day for success!
Q: Where is the Thousand Oaks Touch-a-Truck event located?
A: The 2026 event is held at the Thousand Oaks Community Center, located at 2525 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360. The trucks will be lined up on the soccer fields behind the center.
Q: Is there an admission fee for the Conejo Valley Touch-a-Truck event?
A: No! Admission to this CRPD event is completely free for all families and community members.
Q: What are the hours for the Touch-a-Truck event?
A: The event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Please note: There is no designated "quiet" or sensory hour listed for this event, so expect plenty of honking horns and sirens throughout the day!
Q: What types of vehicles will kids be able to explore?
A: Kids can get up close and personal with a massive variety of community vehicles, including construction equipment, emergency vehicles, and public service trucks.
Q: Are there free activities for kids at the event?
A: Yes! Stop by The Trucks that Saved Children’s Books booth to grab a Free Touch-a-Truck Scavenger Hunt Sheet. It’s a great educational adventure sheet that turns the event field into an interactive matching game for mini "world-schoolers". You can also enter to WIN a FREE Book set!
Q: When is the best time to arrive?
We played in the park before the event around 9:30a and some booths and trucks were ready early! There are less crowds at 10a than 11a.
We can't wait to see the big trucks, soak up some local sunshine, and chat with all of you. See you at the booth! 🚒🤙
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Review: A Great Family Hotel Near the Boardwalk
Planning a Santa Cruz family vacation? See our Hyatt Place Santa Cruz review, including breakfast, pool, rooms, and nearby attractions.
We were looking for a family-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz and the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz ended up being a great fit for our trip.
Location: 407 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
We used our annual free night certificate from our Hyatt credit card, which honestly felt like a pretty great redemption.
The hotel had spacious rooms, free breakfast, a heated pool, and was close to so many toddler-friendly activities around Santa Cruz.
➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT PLACE SANTA CRUZ
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz had a very nice lobby to lounge in
Why We Chose Hyatt Place Santa Cruz for Our Family Trip
Traveling with toddlers means our hotel checklist looks a little different these days.
We wanted:
✔ Space for toddler beds
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Pool for downtime
✔ Close to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
✔ Easy access to family activities
The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz checked all of those boxes.
🚂 See our full 3-Day Itinerary in Santa Cruz with Kids and (what we did that tired them out) here: https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/blog/santa-cruz-itinerary-with-young-kids
A fridge is always handy for leftovers or holding yogurts! The Hyatt Place Santa Cruz had a nice sized mini fridge.
My biggest complaint is the powdered milk for creamer in the room, but I just went downstairs and grabbed a freshly brewed coffee with cream in the morning.
Open mini fridge (empty) in Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Amenities for Families
Free Breakfast that is included with Hyatt Santa Cruz room - eggs, French toast, sausage, potatoes
Free Breakfast Included
The hotel includes complimentary breakfast in the lobby area every morning.
When you have toddlers, quick food options are a lifesaver and while this wasn’t the best hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, it absolutely worked for busy mornings.
Breakfast options during our stay included:
Fruit Loops and Cheerios for the kids
Eggs
Breakfast potatoes (hash browns or diced potatoes depending on the day)
Sausage or bacon
French toast, waffles, or pancakes
Donut holes
Bagels and toast
Yogurt and granola
Fresh fruit
Sometimes you just need food immediately with little ones and this definitely made mornings easier.
Pool at the Hyatt Place in Santa Cruz is perfect for kids
Heated Pool, Spa & Fire Pits
The pool area was another big hit for families.
Amenities included:
Heated pool
Spa / hot tub
Outdoor rinse shower before heading back to your room
Evening fire pits
S’mores kits available for purchase
One note for families with little swimmers: the pool appeared to be under 5 feet deep, which felt very kid-friendly.
Large rooms at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz - perfect for families
Spacious Rooms Make a Huge Difference with Toddlers
One thing we loved most was how spacious our room felt.
Our boys are in that awkward phase where they’re too big for cribs but we don’t trust them on tall hotel beds yet, so we travel with our Rigalo Toddler Inflatable beds.
Sometimes hotel rooms feel cramped once we set them up, but our room at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz felt huge.
We stayed in Room 331, which had a wider layout (some rooms appear longer and narrower).
The extra width gave us room for:
Two toddler beds
Walking space around them
Storage space when not in use
Enough open floor area that the boys could literally do cartwheels
We also had a slight view of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and even a small peek of the ocean in the distance.
My favorite part of the room was the cozy couch nook! there is an “L” shaped pull out couch sofa with a lamp overhead creating a cute little nook where we sat and read bedtime stories. I had the boys snuggle up and we read a few of our favorite books we packed including The Trucks that Saved the Park!
Cozy nook at the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz - perfect for reading books to kids
Bathroom in hotel room at Hyatt Place Santa Cruz did not have a bath tub for kids
Hyatt Place Santa Cruz is a great central location
We loved the location of the Hyatt Place Santa Cruz because it was close to the boardwalk while also being within easy driving distance of several toddler activities.
Serpent Slide at San Lorenzo Park - walking distance from Hyatt Place Santa Cruz
Things to Do Near Hyatt Place Santa Cruz with Kids
San Lorenzo Park
Location: 137 Dakota Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
We walked less than 10 mins to the San Lorenzo Park that had a cute playground! It had lots of structures to climb and burn out some kid afternoon energy. There was
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
Location: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
The hotel is about a 15-minute walk to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
That said, personally I’m not sure I would choose to walk back after dark with little kids.
We drove and found parking by the boardwalk for $5 midweek in May 2026.
The valet mentioned nearby lots can reach around $30, especially on weekends.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
Location: 101 N Big Trees Park Rd, Felton, CA 95018
One of our favorite stops was the flat Redwood Grove Loop Trail at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
It was only about 15 minutes from the hotel and perfect for toddlers.
The loop is approximately one mile, mostly flat, and stroller friendly.
Roaring Camp Train in Santa Cruz - fun thing to do with toddlers
Ride the Roaring Camp Train Through the Redwoods
Location: 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018
Right next to the redwoods is Roaring Camp Railroads.
They offer train rides through the redwoods (we saw departures twice daily during our visit).
We were also told the Beach Train connecting the boardwalk and redwoods is beautiful, though it can be slower because it travels through town and stops frequently at crossings and intersections.
Final Thoughts: Is Hyatt Place Santa Cruz Worth It for Families?
For families traveling with toddlers and young kids, Hyatt Place Santa Cruz worked really well for us.
The highlights were definitely:
✔ Spacious rooms
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Heated pool and fire pits
✔ Close to the Boardwalk
✔ Easy access to toddler activities like Henry Cowell and Roaring Camp
If you travel with inflatable toddler beds like we do, the room size alone was a huge win.
➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT PLACE SANTA CRUZ
Hyatt House Anaheim Review: Our Favorite Family Hotel Near Disneyland
Looking for a family hotel near Disneyland? See why we keep staying at Hyatt House Anaheim with toddlers—walkability, kitchen suites, breakfast, and more.
Sleeping Beauty’s Castle decorated for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary
We love to stay at the Disneyland Resorts but if you’re looking for a budget family friendly hotel, the Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center is one of our favorites!
Location: 1800 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802
We have stayed here multiple times now and honestly… It is a closer to walk from the hotel than it is from the Disneyland parking structure.
It has become one of our favorite family hotels because it checks so many boxes when traveling with little kids:
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Large family rooms
✔ Small kitchen area
✔ Sitting space to spread out
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt points and free night certificates can work here
As parents of little kids, having a hotel that gives us room to breathe after a long Disney day makes a HUGE difference.
➡️ CHECK ROOM RATES HERE: HYATT HOUSE ANAHEIM
Kitchen, desk, and sitting area in the kitchen suites of the Hyatt House Anahiem
Why We Keep Staying at Hyatt House Anaheim for Disneyland Trips
Disney trips with toddlers can be amazing… and also exhausting!
By the time we leave the parks our boys are usually tired, we are carrying snacks, souvenirs, maybe a stroller, and everyone just wants to get back quickly.
That is one reason we keep coming back to Hyatt House Anaheim.
The walk has always felt very manageable with kids, and once we get back we actually have room to spread out instead of all sitting on one hotel bed.
For us, it hits that sweet spot between close enough to Disneyland and comfortable enough for families. There is even an option to have a family suite with bunk beds! If you walk through Downtown Disney to the Disneyland Hotel, the distance to the Hyatt House is equivalent, if not closer!
Sitting area and couch sofa in kitchen suite at Hyatt House Anaheim
How Far Is Hyatt House Anaheim From Disneyland?
One of the biggest reasons we stay here is the location.
Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center is within walking distance of Disneyland, and we have done the walk multiple times with kids. At half of a mile from the front door to the main entrance, that’s nothing on a Disney day!
Honestly, I have joked before that it almost feels closer than parking and walking from the structure.
After a full day at the most magical place on Earth, not needing another shuttle or long transfer is a win.
If you have little ones, strollers, or kids that suddenly “cannot walk anymore” after fireworks… being able to get back to the hotel fairly quickly is huge.
The Kitchen is equipped with everything you could possibly need - refrigerator, dish washer, coffee maker, microwave, and stove.
Hyatt House Anaheim Rooms: Why We Love Them for Families
This is probably my favorite part of staying here.
The rooms feel much more family-friendly than a standard hotel room. It’s called a kitchen suite and for good reason!
You get:
Extra space to spread out
Sitting area
Small kitchen setup complete with dish washer and electric stove
Refrigerator for snacks and drinks
More room for all the Disney stuff that somehow multiplies during the trip
We almost always stock the room with fruit, cereal, snacks, yogurt, and easy breakfast foods.
Not every meal needs to be a Disney meal.
Sometimes everyone is happier with strawberries and cereal before rope drop.
Hyatt House Anaheim rooms are perfect for families visiting Disneyland. Double beds or room for cribs and toddler beds.
Hyatt House Anaheim Free Breakfast: Is It Worth It?
I’ll be honest…
This is not the most amazing hotel breakfast we have ever had.
BUT.
Not paying for one extra Disney meal? That is a win in my book. Especially for families.
Breakfast usually works well enough for us to grab something quick before heading out, and then we supplement with our own snacks and fruit in the room.
Disney days add up fast, so saving even one meal for four people can make a difference.
Yogurt, granola, fruit, donut holes, eggs, breakfast potato option, bagels, bananas, cereal, milk, juice, COFFEE, and tea. There is something for everyone. We loved the donut holes which our little ones called bagels… 🤷🏻♀️
Our Toddler boy visiting Mater in Radiator Springs in California Adventure in the Disneyland Resort
PLANNING A DISNEYLAND TRIP WITH TODDLERS OR YOUNG KIDS?
→ Start here with our Disneyland with toddlers post
Using Hyatt Points at Hyatt House Anaheim
One of the extra reasons we love staying here is that Hyatt points and free night certificates can sometimes work here.
We have used Hyatt stays to help offset family travel costs before, and this hotel has become one of our favorite ways to use those benefits near Disneyland.
If you already collect Hyatt points, this one is worth checking.
Is Hyatt House Anaheim Good for Families?
For us? Absolutely.
Especially if you have:
Toddlers
Preschoolers
Kids who still nap or need downtime
Families wanting more space than a traditional room
Parents trying to keep food costs down
Pros
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Larger family-friendly rooms
✔ Kitchen area + fridge
✔ Sitting space
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt points eligible
Cons
✖ Breakfast is fine, not amazing
✖ Popular family hotel so it can feel busy, especially in the morning and at night
✖ Disneyland days still mean tired little legs on the walk back
kids walking to their hotel - where to stay with toddler boys near the Disneyland Resort
kids walking to their hotel - where to stay with toddler boys near the Disneyland Resort
Hyatt House Anaheim vs Staying at a Disneyland Hotel
We have stayed both on-property and off-property over the years, and honestly this has become one of our favorite Disneyland hotel choices.
You get more room.
You still have walkability.
You can keep snacks in the room.
And depending on your stay, it can be significantly less expensive.
For our family, that balance has made it our repeat choice.
Hyatt House Anaheim FAQ
Is Hyatt House Anaheim walking distance to Disneyland?
Yes! Hyatt House Anaheim is about half a mile from the Disneyland entrance, and we’ve walked it multiple times with little kids.
Does Hyatt House Anaheim have free breakfast?
Yes, breakfast is included. It’s not fancy, but it saves us from buying one extra Disney meal, which is a big win for families.
Is Hyatt House Anaheim good for families?
Yes. The larger rooms, kitchen suites, sitting space, fridge, and free breakfast make it a great option for families visiting Disneyland.
Can you use Hyatt points at Hyatt House Anaheim?
Yes, Hyatt points and free night certificates may work here depending on availability.
Does Hyatt House Anaheim have kitchen suites?
Yes. Some rooms have kitchen suites with a full sized refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, and electric stove.
Final Thoughts: Would We Stay at Hyatt House Anaheim Again?
Yes. Without hesitation.
This has honestly become our go-to Disneyland hotel.
The combination of location, space, kitchen setup, breakfast, and family-friendly rooms keeps bringing us back.
And when you are traveling with little kids, finding a hotel that simply makes the trip easier is worth a lot.
➡️ Book now: HYATT HOUSE ANAHEIM
Disneyland With Toddlers: 10 Tips We Learned Visiting With Two Little Boys
Planning Disneyland with toddlers? Here are our favorite Disneyland tips, Rider Swap hacks, toddler rides, hotel recommendations, and California Adventure favorites from visiting with our two boys.
One of my favorite parts of Disneyland with toddlers isn’t even the rides — it’s watching them take it all in. ✨
Disneyland with toddlers is one of those trips that feels equally magical and slightly chaotic at the same time.
We’ve now visited Disneyland multiple times with our two boys and every trip we learn something new. We’ve learned where to start, which rides are actually worth it for little kids, when Rider Swap saves the day, and which waits are absolutely not worth it with toddlers. Don’t miss our Southern California ticket hack too!
If you’re heading to Disneyland with little ones, these are the tips that have worked best for our family.
Look closely - Mary Poppins and Bert are often found in Fantasyland!
1. Bring ALL the Snacks (and Don’t Feel Like You Have to Take the Tram)
My number one Disneyland tip for toddlers? Snacks. So many snacks. Don’t forget to bring some for you too.
We usually load up before heading into the parks because little kids seem to become hungry approximately every 17 minutes at Disneyland.
We always bring a stroller because it ends up carrying everything — snacks, water bottles, jackets, souvenirs, and occasionally tired children. Also, you might want to put an Airtag in the stroller in case you forget where it is!
One thing to know though: if you take the tram from the parking garage, you have to fold the stroller. Our stroller is a pain to fold so we usually skip the tram entirely and walk through Downtown Disney to the parks instead. It’s an easy walk and saves us the stroller fold-up process.
Sleeping Beauty's castle decorated for the 70th Anniversary celebration at Disneyland.
2. Get There Right When the Park Opens
If you only take one piece of advice from this post, let it be this:
Get there early!
The first few hours of the day are magic at Disneyland with toddlers.
Wait times are shorter, it’s cooler outside, kids still have energy, and you can knock out several rides before the crowds build.
Rope drop is absolutely worth it for families. Besides, aren’t you up at the crack of dawn anyway?!
3. Start in Toontown
If you have toddlers, Toontown is our favorite place to start.
Our boys love:
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Gadget’s Go Coaster
Exploring Toontown
Meeting Mickey in his house
Meeting Mickey first thing in the morning has usually meant shorter waits for us too.
Toontown just feels made for little kids and is such a fun way to start the day.
There is a stationary Dumbo when you get off the ride so you can get that picture perfect shot!
4. Keep an Eye on Fantasyland Wait Times (or Head to Big Thunder!)
Fantasyland is obviously classic Disneyland toddler territory, but don’t forget to watch the wait times. Don’t wait more than 40 mins for anything. Dumbo is great but only when the line is 20 mins or less.
And if you happen to have a little thrill seeker…
Big Thunder Mountain might surprise you.
Our son LOVES Big Thunder.
A 20–30 minute wait for Big Thunder is pretty good in our book, and it has become one of his favorite rides. There is a 40 inches height requirement for this one! Check before you go!
We also LOVE Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters.
5. Learn Rider Swap — It Is the Parent Hack Nobody Told Us About
Rider Swap is one of the best things Disneyland offers for families with little kids.
Here’s how it works:
If one child is too small (or doesn’t want to ride), one parent rides first while the other waits with the younger child.
Then the second parent gets to ride without waiting in the full line again.
You just need to talk to the Cast Member at the ride entrance before anyone gets in line.
We’ve used Rider Swap on so many attractions and it makes a huge difference.
It’s especially helpful if you have one toddler who loves bigger rides and one who isn’t ready yet.
Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than we expected. Meeting Chewbacca was a huge hit for our little Star Wars fan. ✨
6. Don’t Skip Galaxy’s Edge if Your Kids Love Star Wars
Our boys are huge Star Wars fans and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was a massive hit.
Honestly, Galaxy’s Edge ended up being way more toddler-friendly than I expected.
Even walking around the land was fun for them. Give Chewbacca a high five and say hi to Han Solo!
If you have little Star Wars fans, definitely add this to your Disneyland day.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree is the best toddler ride and relatively short line!
7. California Adventure Has Some Great Toddler Rides Too
We love Disneyland, but California Adventure has become one of our boys’ favorites too.
Our must-do rides are:
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
The Little Mermaid
Mater is always a hit.
And The Little Mermaid is such a nice break when you need air conditioning and a slower ride.
Eat at Flo’s and catch Lightning McQueen an Mater roll by!
8. Don’t Wait in the Radiator Springs Racers Line
This may be my slightly controversial Disneyland opinion…
Don’t wait in the regular Radiator Springs Racers line.
We have almost never seen it under an hour and it breaks down fairly often.
If it fits your budget, this is the ride I would consider buying Lightning Lane for.
And if you can combine it with Rider Swap? Even better.
Pro Tip: Our favorite place to eat is Flo’s Cafe. If you sit in the back patio area, Lightning and Mater drive by! Chicken nuggets and fries for the kiddos is one of our favorite meals there.
Meeting Mater and Lighting McQueen was DEFINITELY a highlight for our little Cars fan!
9. Pixar Pier Is Great for Toy Story Fans
If your kids love Toy Story, don’t miss Pixar Pier.
Toy Story Midway Mania is one of our family favorites and is always a hit.
There’s just something about competing for points that keeps everyone happy — kids and adults included. I will beat Josh one day… I swear!
10. Don’t Miss the Spider-Man Show in California Adventure
One thing that surprised us was how much our boys loved the Spider-Man training show near the entrance of California Adventure.
The show runs pretty frequently (about every 50 minutes or so) and lasts around 10 minutes.
You don’t need a huge strategy here.
We usually just walk over when it’s about to start.
Bonus: you can often meet Spider-Man nearby too.
Buzz Lightyear greeting our toddler at the beginning of the ride.
What We Pack for Disneyland With Toddlers
A few things we always bring:
✔ Snacks (LOTS!)
✔ Refillable water bottles
✔ Stroller
✔ Portable charger
✔ Change of clothes
✔ Hats + sunscreen
✔ Small toys for line waiting (always Hot Wheels cars - we have them everywhere)
✔ Extra wipes (always)
For quieter moments back at the hotel, we also usually pack a few screen-free activities.
Lately our boys have loved bringing books from The Trucks That Saved series and truck activities for downtime between park days.
Disney days are amazing, but having a little quiet hotel reset time has helped us a lot.
More Disneyland Posts You Might Like
Planning a holiday Disney trip?
→ Read our Disneyland at Halloween guide or Disneyland at Christmas guide
Need a sweet break between rides?
→ Check out our favorite Disneyland desserts
Disney fan?
→ Check out Walt Disney’s Office
Southern California Parent Hack: Use the 3-Day Resident Ticket
If you live in Southern California, this is one of our favorite Disneyland hacks.
Disneyland often offers a Southern California resident 3-day ticket between January and mid-May, and one of the best parts is that the days typically do not have to be consecutive.
We love this because it makes Disneyland feel so much more manageable with toddlers.
Instead of trying to squeeze everything into one long weekend, we can spread visits out and move at toddler pace.
Just make sure to check Disneyland’s current offers because they change year to year. Costco also sometimes offers a 3-day pass!
Our Favorite Family Hotel Near Disneyland
We almost always stay at Hyatt House Anaheim Resort / Convention Center and honestly… I think it might actually feel closer to walk from there than the parking structure.
It has become one of our favorite family hotel stays because it checks so many boxes for traveling with kids.
What we love:
✔ Walking distance to Disneyland
✔ Large rooms for families
✔ Small kitchen area
✔ Sitting space to spread out
✔ Free breakfast
✔ Hyatt free night certificates or points can work here
The breakfast isn’t the most amazing hotel breakfast we’ve ever had, but not paying for one extra Disney meal is a win in my book.
I’m planning a full review because this has honestly become our go-to Disneyland hotel.
Hyatt House Anahiem Resort Convention Center
1800 S Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802, United States of America
Final Thoughts: Disneyland With Toddlers Is So Worth It
Disneyland with toddlers definitely looks different than pre-kid Disney trips.
There are more snack breaks, slower mornings, stroller parking, and bathroom stops…
But there’s also seeing Mickey through their eyes for the first time, watching them light up on their favorite ride, and hearing them talk about the trip for weeks afterward. 🥹
And honestly? That magic is pretty hard to beat.
More Disneyland Posts:
Free Truck Scavenger Hunt for Kids (Galactic Theme!) | Screen-Free Activity
Download a FREE truck scavenger hunt for kids! This fun, screen-free “Galactic Truck Mission” is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love trucks. 🚧✨
Free truck scavenger hunt - Galactic themed!
May the Fourth be with you! 🚧✨
Looking for a fun, screen-free activity for your truck-loving kids? We created this FREE Galactic Truck Mission to turn a simple walk into an adventure! My kids LOVE trucks and they love Star Wars, this was the perfect activity to play in the car together!
Kids can search for:
🔴 a red truck
🚧 a BIG truck
💡 a truck with lights
💨 a FAST truck
…and more!
It’s perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids.
Make it extra fun for May the Fourth by calling it a “truck mission!” 🚀
Download your free printable HERE:
Free Truck Scavenger Hunt for Kids (Galactic Theme!) | Screen-Free Activity
🚧 How to use it:
Take it on a walk, in the car, or even around your neighborhood. Let your kids point, spot, and get excited when they find each truck!
💛 If your kids love trucks, they’ll also love our book:
The Trucks That Saved the Park
✨ Want more easy activities like this?
Grab more free printables here
The Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream Trucks and Catering in Los Angeles (2026 Menu & Tracker)
Exceptional artisan ice cream trucks found in Los Angeles! Soft serve, vegan options, and more can be found in our top 11! Ice cream trucks are fun for catering parties and corporate work functions, but also nice when they are near you so you don’t have to drive across LA to their shop.
Mister Softee is my favorite ice cream truck in Los Angeles
Best Ice Cream Trucks with menus you need to try in LA!
Updated: April 28, 2026 - Original Post: 2020
If you haven’t noticed by now, we love trucks and ice cream around here, and living in Los Angeles, there are a lot of ice cream truck and catering options. These aren’t your creepy vans that sell Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle pops, these are exceptional artisan ice cream trucks that Angelino’s seek out!
Ice cream trucks are fun for parties and work functions, but also nice to enjoy when they are in your area.
Sweet N Hollow Chimney Cake
Trucks for Kids!
If you’ve read the latest adventure in my children’s book series, The Trucks That Saved, you know that the ice cream truck is the ultimate hero that brings the whole park together!
Seeing these incredible trucks in Los Angeles reminds me so much of that spirit of community and joy.
Whether we're exploring the city for a travel guide or reading about our favorite truck friends, it’s all about those sweet moments.
The Top Ice Cream Trucks in Los Angeles Neighborhood (2026 Edition)
The classic pre-packaged bar model has evolved into a world of artisanal scoops and Instagram-ready treats. Here are the most popular trucks currently dominating the LA food scene:
1. The Aesthetic & Artisanal Ice Cream Truck Menu Leaders
Recess Ice Cream Truck sundae with chocolate sauce served at a work event
Creamy Boys Ice Cream Truck
Arguably the most "Instagrammable" truck in LA right now. They specialize in New Zealand-style Real Fruit Ice Cream, blending fresh fruit into a vanilla base on the spot.
Their custom-branded wraps make them a favorite for major brand activations and influencer events.
Recess Ice Cream Truck
Known for its "back-to-school" nostalgia, this truck focuses on ultra-premium, small-batch ice cream with high butterfat content. They are legendary for their "un-cone-ditional" hospitality and creative cookie sandwiches.
The Menu: Recess offers fun options like french toast sliders, frozen hot chocolate, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and more!
We ordered this truck a few times for work functions (located in Burbank) and the Recess Ice Cream Truck didn’t disappoint!
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Truck
I often see the Van Leeuwen truck on Abbott Kinney on the Westside, but you can also rent for parties, weddings, baby showers, wedding showers, birthdays, and events!
The Menu: Their artisan ice cream flavors will please any audience and they offer gluten-free and vegan flavors!
McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams Truck in Los Angeles
McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream Truck
“Have ice cream, will travel” is this Santa Barbara-based company’s motto! LA locals are familiar with McConnell’s scoop shops around town and their ice cream truck can often be found at street fairs.
You can book them for parties, weddings, corporate events, and more!
The Menu: Delicious creamy scoops of ice cream flavors that are irresistible.
Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck in Los Angeles
Oat-ly Ice Cream Truck
The Menu: Oat-ly is an original oat milk company from Sweden that turns nutritious liquid oat milk into ice cream! It’s plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free!
Oat-ly also are earth-conscious, making their ice cream while reducing their carbon footprint as much as possible.
Download a free truck scavenger hunt for kids - screen-free activity for toddlers
🚒 Want to make your Ice Cream Truck hunt even more fun?
Download my Free Truck Hero Scavenger Hunt Printable! It’s the perfect way to keep the little ones engaged while you track down the best scoops in LA. See if you can spot all 17 truck heroes—including the ice cream truck!
2. The Niche & Unique Crowd-Pleasers
Blaque Parlor Ice Cream Truck
Famous for its striking organic black ice cream, this truck fits the "edgy" LA aesthetic perfectly. It is a top choice for luxury brand events and stylish weddings.
Ridges Churro Bar
This fan favorite serves Churro Sundaes—creamy soft serve topped with warm, artisanal churro loops. It consistently ranks as one of the most-liked dessert trucks on local food platforms.
Saffron & Rose Ice Cream Truck
Bringing their Westwood brick-and-mortar quality to the streets, their mobile truck serves Persian Ice Cream featuring flavors like rosewater, saffron, and pistachio.
SuperCool Creamery ice cream catering with a touch of magic
SuperCool Creamery Catering - Ice Cream and a Magic Show
Supercool combines ice cream and magic with a little liquid nitrogen! Fantastic flavors and a variety of toppings (including booze), they’ll add pizaazz to any party!
The Menu: Nitro-artisan ice cream, nitro-artisan frozen cocktails, and a fabulous toppings bar. Gotta try the Dragon’s Breath - patrons chew frozen corn puffs with mouths closed and breath smoke out of their nose!
Kosher and dairy free options are available, see the full menu here.
They used to have a shop in Silver Lake but are currently only offering their catering service.
🎩 See our full post: SuperCool Creamery Review
Great for corporate function, red carpet premieres, kids parties, and more!
Mister Softee Ice Cream Truck
3. The Cult Classics & Modernized Favorites
CVT Soft Serve Truck
CVT’s goal is to make the best soft serve around! Using local California dairy, they have perfected their soft serve and claim it is the best west of the Atlantic. As they say, “is it arrogant if it’s true?” Their comedic and transparent personality makes for a great follow on their Instagram! Whatever you do, don’t ask them for free things in exchange for social media posts, Influencers pay double! #welovemostofourcustomers
The Menu: Simple Soft Serve choices of chocolate, vanilla, or twist. Their East Coast-style soft serve and vintage truck are iconic in the city.
Mister Softee Southern CA
My personal favorite!!! This isn't your average neighborhood truck; it’s a high-end, polished fleet. They recently expanded with "Surfside Softee’s Bikes & Carts," perfect for smaller event spaces.
The classic Mister Softee ice cream truck menu has received a polished, high-end makeover for the Southern California scene.. From traditional dipped cones to the new "Surfside" specialties, it’s a menu built for modern LA adventures.
Goodies Truck
A clean, professional take on the traditional model, serving classic pre-packaged bars from a bright, trusted truck.
King Kone Ice Cream Truck
The Menu: If you’re looking for soft serve and sprinkles, this truck’s got you covered! Their menu doesn’t end there, try an ice cream sandwich, milkshake, or banana split!
No matter what, there is something for everyone!
Happy Ice Truck
You can spot this truck from miles away with the vibrant colors.
The Menu: Happy Ice, per their website, is an “ultra-premium Water Ice product, made from a secret recipe from Philadelphia with an artistic LA twist. It has the smooth, rich, creamy texture of ice cream and the light, fruity refreshment of a sorbet, without egg or dairy products of any kind.”
It is also black-owned business, show some support!
Kona Shaved Ice Truck
Have a luau or tropical island-themed party? Have some authentic shave Ice to go with your tiki decor!
The Menu: Shaved ice, fruit smoothies, Tops - sour powder, Kandy spoons
They even do fundraisers for functions like schools and sports teams!
My favorite detail, they offer color changing cups! Great truck for kids birthday parties - colorful truck, cute characters, endless flavor combinations.
King Kone Ice Cream Truck Soft Serve cone with sprinkles in Los Angeles
The Sound of Summer: Iconic Ice Cream Truck Music
Nothing signals the start of summer in LA quite like the distant, tinkling jingle of an ice cream truck. Whether it's the classic "Turkey in the Straw" or the unmistakable Mister Softee theme, that music is the universal "bat-signal" for a sweet escape.
In my children’s book, The Trucks That Saved, the jingle is more than just a song—it's the signal that the hero has arrived to save the day at the park!
Looking for more sweet inspiration? If these jingles have you feeling nostalgic, check out my ultimate list of Ice Cream Quotes & Songs to find the perfect caption for your next sundae selfie.
Finding the Best Ice Cream Truck Near You in Los Angeles
While these trendy trucks travel all over the city, finding an ice cream truck near you in a place as big as LA requires a little bit of "insider" knowledge. Most of the trucks on this list don't just wander neighborhoods; they park at specific "sweet spots" like First Fridays in Venice, Smorgasburg LA, Marina del Rey’s Beach Eats, or popular parks like Lake Balboa and Griffith Park.
Pro-Explorer Tip: The best way to track down a specific truck "near me" in real-time is to check their Instagram Stories. Most LA favorites, like Creamy Boys and Ridges Churro Bar, post their daily "GPS" locations every morning.
Just like in my book, The Trucks That Saved, the best part of finding a truck hero is the community that gathers around it! Whether you find them at a local park or a city festival, it’s all about those shared sweet moments.
RIP Ice Cream Trucks
A few ice cream trucks that were amazing but have ceased operation and are deeply missed:
Blast Ice Cream Truck
Sweet n Hollow Ice Cream Truck
Blast Ice Cream Truck - no longer in service
Love trucks as much as we do?
At The Sweetest Escapes, we believe every journey should be a little bit sweeter. If your little ones loved learning about these LA ice cream trucks, they’ll fall in love with the heroes in The Trucks That Saved book series.
📚🚚 Shop the Books & Travel Guides here: www.thesweetestescapes.com/trucks-that-saved
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Best Ice Cream Trucks in Los Angeles
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Toddler Friendly Guide and Itinerary for Spring and Summer in Lake Tahoe
Planning a Lake Tahoe family vacation with toddlers? As a lifelong Tahoe local, I’ve updated this guide to include Blue Health alpine resets and multi-gen itineraries for grandparents and kids. Discover the best toddler-friendly spots in South Lake Tahoe, from the East Shore Trail to STEM adventures with local helper trucks. Whether you need easy hikes at Glen Alpine Falls or family dining at Riva Grill, this 2026 guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable mountain escape.
Pine trees, Lake Tahoe views from high above in Heavenly gondola ski lift
Last Updated: April 2026 | Originally Published: 2025
From Playgrounds to Pine Trees: Lake Tahoe Adventures for Tiny Feet
There were many summers that I went with my family to Lake Tahoe growing up and I couldn’t wait to take my little family! I did have to do some research as I was curious about what activities we could do with two toddlers!
Planning a Lake Tahoe family vacation with toddlers can seem daunting, but it's easier than you think! As a parent who's enjoyed countless Tahoe trips since childhood, I’ve compiled the ultimate toddler-friendly guide to Lake Tahoe, packed with things to do with toddlers in South Lake Tahoe and beyond. Discover the best parks for kids in Lake Tahoe, like the scenic Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park or the playground paradise of Kahle Park. Looking for easy hikes with toddlers in Lake Tahoe?
Glen Alpine Falls offers a stunning waterfall view with minimal effort, perfect for little legs. Don't miss out on enjoying a family picnic at Lake Tahoe at spots like Kiva Beach or Pope Beach. For North Lake Tahoe activities, the newly accessible Tahoe East Shore Trail (often called the 'Impossible Trail') is a paved, stroller-friendly wonder. Explore the charming town of Truckee, home to the fantastic KidZone Museum, a top pick for toddler fun near Lake Tahoe. When it comes to where to stay in South Lake Tahoe with toddlers, options range from VRBO cabin rentals to family-friendly hotels like the Holiday Inn Express. And for dining, I'll share toddler-friendly restaurants in Lake Tahoe like Riva Grill on the Lake and Edgewood's Brooks' Bar and Deck, where you can savor delicious meals with stunning views. Get ready for an unforgettable Lake Tahoe adventure with small children!
Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack with toddlers!
Best toddler-friendly activities and things to do in South Lake Tahoe
heavenly Gondolas from the Heavenly Village Center
Heavenly Gondolas
Location: 4080 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Heavenly Village Giant Chair made of Skiis
This was a great idea… kids under 5 ride free (adults are currently $124) and it’s unlimited rides for the day. It sounded perfect, however, they were closed the duration we were there and re-opening for summer just before Memorial Day.
Note: they aren’t open every day, so it’s a great idea but just check the website to make sure they are open!
All else fails, the shopping center around the Gondola base is fantastic. Tons of restaurants and stores to explore and some grassy areas to run around. In summer months, there is a mini golf course and a trampoline adventure in the center of the plaza.
Making it a road trip? See our Toddler Road Trip Essentials. You won’t want to miss our favorite toys for the car and hotel room!
Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park
Parks and Recreation
There are tons of parks in Lake Tahoe and we found some awesome playgrounds!
Thomas F. Regan Memorial City Beach Park
Location: 3199 Sacramento Ave, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Located right on the water with perfect lake views, parking lot, and restrooms! The playground was small but there were a few slides and swings as well as a beach volleyball court and lots of grass to run around!
Kahle Park
Location: 236 Kingsbury Grade Rd, Stateline, NV 89449
Nestled higher up in the mountains, there’s a really fun park with partial lake views. There’s a playground for 2-5-year-olds and one for 5-12-year-olds. Our kids played on both playgrounds.
Speaking of PARK, get The Trucks that Saved the Park story book and coloring book for your trip!
Glen Alpine Falls at Fallen Leaf Lake
See a Waterfall (without much of a hike!)
Glen Alpine Falls - 1580 Glen Alpine Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
My toddlers are over 30 pounds and I didn’t really want to hike with them as it would be fun for 5 minutes and then I’d be required to carry one for the rest of the duration. Luckily, Glen Alpine Falls is located just off of Fallen Leaf Lake and literally can be seen from the road! We went midweek around 11a and it wasn’t very crowded with front-row parking!
There’s a split rock with a little deck that my littles liked to climb on. Afterward, we drove down to the Kiva picnic area (follow the Tallac signs) and had lunch on a picnic table steps away from the lake. It was about a 5-minute walk to those tables by the lake but there were also some closer to the parking lot with bathrooms! The path was flat so we loaded up our wagon and were able to only carry one kid who didn’t want to ride in the wagon! Win! My only complaint is that the tables are wood and old so I would bring towels to sit on next time. Luckily no splinters incidents on this adventure!
Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!
Kiva Beach Picnic
Go for a Picnic!
Why is a picnic at Lake Tahoe so much fun? For starters, it's a chance to relish the crystal-clear waters and graze on delicious food with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop. You get to enjoy the glorious Lake Tahoe sunshine (which is usually a breeze in June!), the crisp mountain air, and maybe even some antsy entertainment if a few uninvited guests try to join your feast, though the views will surely distract you. It’s a delightful escape from the usual routine, and let's be honest, everything just tastes better when you're eating on a blanket with the magnificent Big Blue just a stone's throw away. Plus, there's always the excitement of seeing what surprises are in the basket – it's truly a sand-witch of an adventure, especially when you're surrounded by one of nature's most stunning masterpieces!
There are so many places to picnic around the lake:
Kiva Beach
Emerald Bay State Beach
Kings Beach
Zephyr Cove Park
Pope Beach
Trucks that Saved the Park coloring and story book great story to bring when traveling with kids
Blue Health: The "Alpine Water" Reset for the Whole Family
Lake Tahoe is more than just a beautiful destination; it is the ultimate Blue Health Escape. The lake’s legendary clarity and specific deep blue hues offer a science-backed "mental reset" that benefits every generation.
For Kids: The calm, shallow waters at parks like Sand Harbor or Pope Beach provide restorative sensory play. Watching the ripple of the clear alpine water helps settle busy growing minds.
For Grandparents: The quiet, expansive views of the lake offer a peaceful environment for relaxation and connection without the overstimulation of more crowded tourist spots.
Multi-Gen Pro-Tip: The Alpine Reset Take a moment to sit together by the water’s edge. In 2026, travel is about "slowing down" to appreciate the science of nature’s calming effects on our mental well-being.
Multi-generational Logistics: Finding the "Middle Ground"
The key to a successful three-generation trip to Tahoe is balancing shared communal spaces with private retreats.
What are the best multi-generational resorts in Lake Tahoe?
Look for properties that offer "Accessibility with Dignity"—meaning everyone can enjoy the standout moments regardless of mobility.
The Shared Space Strategy: Consider booking condos or lodges with ground-floor access and communal kitchens. This allows for slow, easy breakfasts together before heading out for the day's adventures.
Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe (formerly Harveys) – Spacious rooms with incredible lake views make this a perfect multi-generational stay. We loved having connecting rooms so the kids had space to play, while parents and grandparents could easily sneak away for a drink or head up to the rooftop restaurant for dinner with a view. See more on this hotel below!
Paved Exploration: We highly recommend the East Shore Trail. This 3-mile paved path is perfect for a stroller and a grandparent who prefers level ground, all while offering spectacular lake views.
Low-Impact, High-Reward: The Best Multi-Gen Hike in Tahoe
One of our favorite discoveries was a stunning waterfall hike that is perfect for toddlers and grandparents alike.
The Waterfall & Stream: This particular spot is a "hidden gem" because the waterfall and the stream leading to it are very close to the road. This ensures that even those with limited mobility can experience the "Blue Health" benefits of rushing water without a strenuous trek.
As mentioned, see more details above - Glen Alpine Falls - 1580 Glen Alpine Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Pacing for Success: This stop provides a high-visual impact moment with minimal effort, ensuring every generation feels included in the "standout moments" of the trip.
Planning a Tahoe trip with kids? These free printable games are an easy way to keep little ones engaged while you explore the lake.
The "Helper" Tour: A Lake Tahoe Truck Scavenger Hunt
To add an Educational Adventure to your trip, keep an eye out for the "Real-Life Heroes" that keep the Tahoe basin running.
Finding the Trucks That Saved the Lake
Living in Southern California, we don't often see the heavy-duty machinery required for mountain life. Our kids were fascinated by:
Snowplows: Even in the warmer months, you can often find these massive "helpers" parked and ready for the next big winter storm.
Lumber Trucks & Fire Stations: Tahoe is home to many specialized vehicles used for forest management and community safety.
Vertical Helpers (Gondolas): While not exactly trucks, the gondolas heading up the mountains are incredible machines. Challenge your kids to spot the "wheels at the top" that keep everyone moving safely up the slopes!
Literary Travel Tip: As you spot these vehicles, it’s the perfect time to talk about teamwork and community helpers. We love reading The Trucks That Saved the Park while watching real-life versions of our favorite characters at work.
To make your 'Helper Tour' even more fun, we created a printable Bingo game!
📥 GIVEAWAY: "Want to keep the kids busy while you enjoy the lake views?
Click here to download our Free Tahoe Helper Bingo Game!
Best things to do in North Lake Tahoe
Impossible trail - Tahoe East Shore Trail
Location: Tahoe East Shore Trail, 1924 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451
It’s called the Impossible Trail by the locals because it took forever to build but if you look it up on google maps, it’s call the Tahoe East Shore Trail!
🥾 The "Impossible Trail" in Lake Tahoe, more formally known as the Tahoe East Shore Trail, earned its dramatic moniker because constructing a path along this rugged and incredibly scenic stretch of shoreline was once considered an almost insurmountable feat.
For decades, accessing the breathtaking beaches and coves along Lake Tahoe's East Shore was challenging and often dangerous, with vehicles and pedestrians sharing a narrow, winding highway. The idea of building a safe, dedicated pathway seemed "impossible" given the complex terrain, environmental concerns, and the need for collaboration among numerous agencies.
However, through extensive planning, funding, and engineering, this dream became a reality, transforming the "Impossible Trail" into "America's Most Beautiful Bikeway."
This paved, 3-mile trail is absolutely wonderful for toddlers and families. Its smooth, wide surface makes it perfect for strollers, trikes, and little wobbly walkers, eliminating concerns about uneven terrain or roots. The trail hugs the shoreline, offering continuous, stunning lake views that will captivate even the youngest adventurers. With numerous access points to secluded beaches and picnic spots, families can easily hop off the trail for a splash in the crystal-clear water, a snack break, or simply to marvel at the massive granite boulders.
The lack of significant inclines means little legs won't get too tired, ensuring a fun, accessible, and truly memorable outdoor experience for everyone, making it far from "impossible" to enjoy with your tiny explorers!
Truckee
Location: KidZone Museum, 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161
While the glittering waters of Lake Tahoe are the main draw, the charming mountain town of Truckee, located about an hour's drive (approximately 44-45 miles) north of South Lake Tahoe, offers a fantastic change of pace and a wealth of toddler-friendly activities. Truckee's historic downtown is a delight to explore with its old-west charm, train tracks (a huge hit with train-loving tots!), and unique shops.
For active little ones, the KidZone Museum is a must-visit, providing interactive, hands-on exhibits designed specifically for young children, offering hours of engaging play.
You can also head to Donner Lake (just a short drive from downtown Truckee) for a different lakeside experience with sandy beaches and calm waters perfect for splashing and building sandcastles.
Many of the larger resorts in the Truckee/Northstar area also offer fantastic summer activities for families, including mini-golf, outdoor play areas, and even gentle scenic gondola rides that provide stunning views without strenuous hiking. Truckee truly rounds out a Lake Tahoe adventure by offering a blend of history, indoor fun, and easily accessible outdoor spaces for the little ones.
Speaking of TRUCKS…
Get your free printable now! Play in the car anytime, anywhere!
Where to Stay with Toddlers in South Lake Tahoe
There are a lot of adorable cabin rentals that you can book through Booking.com - just turn on the search option for “Vacation Homes”.
Caesars Republic
Location: 18 Hwy 50, Stateline, NV 89449
We have stayed at Harvey’s a few times which is now called Caesars Republic and currently under major renovation.
However, the rooms are spacious with lots of lake view options! There is a casino which isn’t great for kids, but good if you want to take turns going down to gamble or go to a bar when the children are sleeping!
There’s an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center too. Though I’ve never seen the fitness center, good for you if you make it!
The restaurants are great but not exactly kid friendly! Here’s what you need to know:
Hell’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramseydoes not have a dedicated kids' menu, but they are accommodating to families and can offer options for children. Yelp users report that servers can usually suggest items from the main menu or prepare something simple like chicken tenders or mac and cheese.
Wolf by Vanderpump doesn’t have a kids menu either and is 21+ after 8p.
My favorite restaurant is the Sage Room which is located on the 19th floor with a perfect view of the lake! Try and get a reservation ahead of time around sunset. Again, they don’t have a kids menu but check ahead of time to see if there is something your tot might be into.
Holiday Inn Express Exterior
Budget friendly option - Holiday Inn Express Lake Tahoe
Location: 3961 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
We had a free night through our IHG credit card that was expiring and we decided to give Holiday Inn Express a try. For a 3-star hotel, it was great. We got the double queen room with an extra floor space option, which was perfect for our two tots to run around or play with the knock-off magnatile set (Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set). Our stay included free breakfast and was walkable to the Heavenly shops and restaurants as well as the state-line casinos!
Where to Dine with Toddlers in Lake Tahoe
Chances are your toddler sits for 5-10 minutes and then is bored. No matter how many toys, coloring books, or crayons I pack, all I want is someone to serve me a nice meal to enjoy. Here are a few spots that we had good luck with:
Riva Grill views
Riva Grill on the Lake
900 Ski Run Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
I love this place! It’s right on the water and there is plenty to see if you’re sitting inside or outside! The tables outside on the patio were large so we could sprawl out with coloring books and food. There’s even a walkway just off to the side if you have to take a breather or wait for Dad to pay the check. Get a Woody drink!
Edgewood's Brooks Bar and Deck on the patio overlooking a golf course and Lake Tahoe
Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck
180 Lake Pkwy, Stateline, NV 89449
For a memorable dining experience that caters to both adults and toddlers, consider Edgewood Tahoe's Brooks' Bar and Deck. While Edgewood is known for its upscale golf course and lodge, Brooks' Bar and Deck strikes a perfect balance, offering a refined yet comfortable atmosphere that warmly welcomes families. Situated right off the picturesque 18th hole, the expansive deck boasts unparalleled views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierras – a constantly changing panorama that can keep even the most restless toddler entertained. Their "gastropub" menu features elevated comfort food, with options that are often appealing to a wider range of palates, and the casual-yet-classy ambiance means you won't feel out of place with a high chair and a few kid-friendly snacks. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the iconic Lake Tahoe scenery, creating a special memory for everyone in the family.
California Burger Co.
California Burger Co.
1001 Heavenly Village Way #2b, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Located in Heavenly Village, this outdoor spot was great for toddlers. There was enough fake grass, a fire pit to run trucks over (when the fire was off and not hot), and live music. They also had frozen lemonade so the kids had a drink while Mommy and Daddy also had a fun drink. Wink, wink! The food was good - burgers were great but they didn’t have a kid’s burger, luckily there were chicken tenders and a grilled cheese to choose from.
🍔 See more of our FAVORITE LAKE TAHOE RESTAURANTS - don’t miss the one with my favorite view of the lake!
Itinerary for 4 days in Lake Tahoe during Spring or Summer
Day 1
5p - Arrive in Reno
5:30p - Pick up rental car
6:30p - Grab Chick-fil-a by airport and drive to Tahoe (about an hour)
7:30p - Check into hotel
8p - Bedtime - Read our favorite story, The Trucks that Saved the Park
Day 2
5:45a wake-up call from excited 1.5 year old, 3.5 year old slept longer
6a walk around the neighborhood grab breakfast - we had free breakfast with our room but there are lots of coffee shops in the area if you need a destination. We also made muffins and brought them with us.
8a - eat breakfast together as a family - Social House was a good recommendation
10a - head to the park on the lake
12p - lunch at Riva Grill
1:30p - naptime
3p - drive over to Kahle Park
5p - drop car off, walk to California Burger Co. outdoor seating, live music
6:30p - walk back to hotel, get ready for bed
7:15p - bedtime
Day 3
6:15a Wake-up call from a happy toddler
7a - Free breakfast at the hotel restaurant
8a - walk over to the shopping center to entertain toddler
10a - 35 min Drive to the waterfall (Glen Alpine Falls)
10:40a - Arrive and explore
11:45a - drive to Kiva picnic area
12:05p - arrive Kiva picnic area, walk down, eat lunch
12:40p - drive back to hotel
1:15p - naptime
3:30p - walk over to Heavenly shopping center - shops, restaurants, mini golf (during summer)
5:45p - dinner
6:30p - walk back to room, get ready for bed
7:30p - bedtime
Day 4
6:20a Wake-up call from toddler
7a - Breakfast at Heaven’s Little Cafe (eat it there or take it to go!)
8a - drive to North Shore’s Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail
8:40a - Hike Tahoe East trail aka Impossible trail
11:30a - Lunch at Inclined Burgers and Brews - kids menu includes hamburger, cheeseburger, grilled cheese and chicken strips
12:30p - take a drive for a car nap
3p - Arrive at KidZone in Truckee - 11711 Donner Pass Rd, Truckee, CA 96161
5p - Drive back towards the south shore
6p - Dinner at Edgewood’s Brook’s Bar and Deck and enjoy the sunset
What to pack for Toddlers?!
Shop our Amazon list for our favorite things to pack!
What was in our suitcase? Pretty much everything! Being there mid-May, there was still snow on the mountains so it was mid 60’s during the day but 30’s at night!
For a family of 4 (including 2 toddlers), we packed:
3 duffles- we love the Eddie Bauer duffle that compacts into a small bag
Duffle #1 - toddlers’ clothes, diapers, shoes, toys, etc.
Duffle #2 - My clothes and hub’s clothes
Duffle #3 - toddler bumper for bed, you can use pillows but we had free bags we could check. Sometimes we bring the race car blow-up bed
2 personal bags (however, mine was toy overflow) - Picasso Magnet Mini tile travel set, Go Dog Go board book, trucks, Pixar Cars bath toys, Reusable Sticker books, and Coloring Books.
Insulated Snack bag - filled with PB&J sandwiches, That’s It Bars,
wagon (instead of our stroller, but we LOVE this travel stroller)
Don’t forget to grab a Crossword Puzzle for nap time! This is my FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries - what could be better! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR It keeps my mind working and gives me a list of places to add to our bucket list!
See our full list on Amazon.com!
Don’t forget to print these free coloring pages from The Trucks that Saved the Park
So pack your bags, grab your little adventurers, and get ready for a Lake Tahoe trip that’s anything but ordinary. It’s an adventure waiting to be explored, even with the littlest legs leading the way!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Things to do in Summer in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler
Read more about Lake Tahoe in these posts:
Free Kids Event in Thousand Oaks (Fun Activities, Crafts + Giveaways!)
Looking for free things to do with kids in Thousand Oaks? This family-friendly event at Conejo Creek North Park includes crafts, activities, and giveaways—perfect for toddlers and young kids. If you live in the Los Angeles area or in Ventura County come on by!
Looking for a fun (and FREE!) thing to do with your kids in Thousand Oaks? 🎉
We’re so excited to be part of a FREE family-friendly kids event hosted by Childhood Matters called the Zones of Wellness: Mental Health Awarness Community Playdate at Conejo Creek North Park—and you’re invited!
Whether you have toddlers, preschoolers, or early elementary kids, this is the perfect way to get outside, enjoy the park, and let your little ones play, create, and explore.
📍 Event Details
Event: ZOW Mental Health Awareness Playdate
Location: Conejo Creek North Park, Thousand Oaks (behind the Library) 1379 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Date: Saturday, April 25
Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
ZOW Event Schedule - don’t miss this event in the Conejo Valley!
🎨 What to Expect
This event is packed with fun for kids of all ages:
Hands-on crafts
Fun kids activities
Face Paint
Magic Show
Silent Auction
Outdoor playtime in a beautiful park setting
It’s the kind of easy, no-pressure outing parents love—and kids get SO excited about 💛
🚧 Come Visit Us!
We’ll be there with The Trucks That Saved series, and we would LOVE to meet you in person!
Stop by our booth for:
Truck-themed fun
Coloring pages for kids
A chance to see our books up close
👉 If your kids love trucks, construction vehicles, or anything with wheels—they’re going to LOVE this.
🧃 Make It a Full Family Day
Conejo Creek North Park is such a great spot to spend the day. You can:
Pack a picnic (we like to sit at the picnic tables to watch the ducks and turtles by the water!)
Let the kids run around the playgrounds (there are two!)
Enjoy some fresh air and sunshine ☀️
Go to the library (it’s our favorite!), grab a new book, and say hi to the fish!
It’s the perfect way to turn a simple event into a full family outing.
🖍️ Free Truck Coloring Pages (Grab Yours!)
Before you go, don’t forget to download your FREE truck coloring pages—perfect for keeping kids entertained at home or on the go.
👉 Download your free printables here
💛 Why We Love Events Like This
As a mom, I’m always looking for:
Screen-free activities
Easy weekend plans
Things that don’t cost a fortune
This event checks all the boxes—and we’re so honored to be part of it.
📌 Save This for Later
Planning your weekend?
Be sure to save this post to Pinterest so you don’t forget!
✨ Final Tip
If you’re local to Thousand Oaks, definitely add this to your weekend plans—it’s one of those easy YES activities that kids remember.
And if you come… come say hi! 👋
We’d love to meet you 💛
More Family Fun Posts:
🌎 Earth Day with Kids: Simple, Sweet & (Mostly) Mess-Free Ideas
Looking for simple Earth Day ideas for kids? These fun, screen-free activities are perfect for toddlers and young children—easy, meaningful, and mom-approved.
Earth Day is coming up (April 22nd), and if you’re anything like me… you love the idea of doing something meaningful and engaging with your kids—but it also needs to be simple, doable, and not turn your house into a full construction zone! 😅
The good news? Celebrating Earth Day with little ones doesn’t have to be complicated. A few small activities can go a long way—and honestly, kids think it’s all pretty tree-mendous 🌳 (I had to, haha)
GRAB OUR FREE DOWNLOAD: Free Earth Day Activity Pack for Kids 🌿
Here are a few of our favorite easy ways to celebrate Earth Day with kids!
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22nd and is all about taking care of our planet. It’s a day to slow down, get outside, and teach kids simple ways to help—like picking up trash, planting something new, or just appreciating nature. Even the smallest actions can make a big difference!
Saving the yard one load at a time 🌱🚧 our tiny clean-up crew reporting for duty
🌱 1. Backyard “Clean-Up Crew” Mission
Turn your kids into an official clean-up crew for the day (bonus points if you bring out toy trucks 👷♂️).
Grab:
A small bucket or bag
Gloves (or just brave little hands)
A “mission” mindset
Let them collect sticks, leaves, or any little bits around the yard or park.
👉 You can even say:
“Today we’re helping save the park!”
Suddenly it’s not cleaning… it’s a full-blown adventure. I need to apply this method inside too.
🌼 2. Plant Something (Anything Counts!)
No garden? No problem.
Plant flowers in a pot
Start herbs on a windowsill
Even tossing seeds in dirt = success
Let your kids water it and check on it each day. It’s a tiny reminder that big things grow from small beginnings 🌿
(Also a great lesson in patience… for all of us 😅)
A little Earth Day quiet time 🌎🎨 (screen-free and yes… trucks are involved, obviously 🚧💛)
🎨 3. Earth Day Coloring + Activity Time
This is my go-to when I want something calm, screen-free, and actually engaging.
Think:
Mazes
Simple “look & find” activities
It’s the perfect mix of fun + learning—and a great reset moment in the day.
👉 If your kids love trucks, you already know how this goes…
suddenly the dump truck is helping clean the park and the ice cream truck shows up at the end 🍦 (as it should)
🌿 Free Earth Day Activity Pack for Kids
If you’re looking for a simple way to celebrate Earth Day with your kids (without overcomplicating it 🙃), I put together a free printable Earth Day activity pack that makes it easy and fun.
It includes a mix of screen-free activities that little kids actually enjoy:
A cute Earth Day coloring page with our favorite truck friends
A nature scavenger hunt you can take outside
Easy Earth Day ideas you can do together
These are the kinds of activities we do with our boys — simple, hands-on, and just enough structure to keep them engaged without feeling like “work.”
👉 Perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early learners
💛 Why we love this
Earth Day doesn’t have to be a big production to be meaningful.
Even small things — like going on a nature walk, planting something tiny, or picking up a few pieces of trash — help kids start to understand how to care for the world around them.
And honestly… adding a fun printable just makes it feel a little more special ✨
📥 Download your free pack
👉 Grab your free Earth Day Activity Pack here
(Print it at home, bring it outside, or save it for a rainy day — it’s one of those easy wins you’ll come back to every year.)
🌼 Pro tip
If you want to stretch this into a full afternoon activity:
Do the scavenger hunt first
Come back and color
Read The Trucks That Saved the Park together
Then talk about one small way your family can help the Earth
Simple, meaningful, and zero stress 🤍
The tiniest Earth Day discovery 🐞🌿 (and suddenly the walk became very important)
🚶♀️ 4. Take a “Nature Walk”… But Make It Fun
Instead of just walking, turn it into a game:
Can you find:
Something green 🌿
A flower 🌼
A rock 🪨
A bug 🐞
Little scavenger hunts = instant engagement.
And if snacks are involved? Even better.
♻️ 5. Talk About “Helping the Earth” (Kid Version)
My kids love to help and always ask if we can recycle anything we throw away. For our talk, we kept it super simple:
Throw trash away
Reuse what you can
Take care of nature
No big lectures needed—just small, everyday habits. The kids took it to heart, the hardest thing for us now is that our bath tub is full of reusable containers!
We love reading The Trucks That Saved the Park—
it follows Dump Truck, Crane Truck, Excavator, Cement Truck, and their hardworking friends as they come together to rebuild a park for everyone to enjoy.
From clearing debris and planting trees to building safe paths and playground spaces, the trucks show that even the biggest changes start with small acts of helping.
And along the way, they learn something really important— that caring for a community isn’t just about building… it’s about listening, helping, and making space for everyone!
💛 The Sweetest Part
At the end of the day, Earth Day doesn’t have to be perfect.
If your kids:
picked up a few sticks
colored a page (maybe from our Earth Day Activity Pack)
planted one tiny seed
…you’re doing it right!!
Because raising kind, curious little humans who care about the world around them?
That’s what really matters 🌎
✨ And if you’re looking for an easy, screen-free activity to add to your day, you can find our printable truck activity pack —perfect for quiet time, travel, or just a little break in between adventures.
Pin this for later 📌 so you have a few easy Earth Day ideas ready to go!
Earth Day Activities Kids Love - Easy and low prep
More fun family posts!
🐣 Best Easter Basket Stuffers for Truck-Loving Kids (2026 Guide)
Build the perfect truck-themed Easter basket with these fun, non-candy ideas for toddlers and preschoolers who love dump trucks and construction vehicles.
Our truck-themed Easter basket this year — mini construction toys, colorful eggs, and a cozy bedtime story we’ll be reading together on Easter night.
If your child sleeps with a dump truck, insists on pointing out every excavator at a construction site, and corrects you when you call a bulldozer a “tractor”… this Easter basket guide is for you.
Instead of loading up on candy that disappears in a day (and leads to the inevitable sugar crash), this list is filled with fun, practical, and creative Easter basket stuffers for truck-loving kids. These are items they’ll actually use long after the chocolate bunny is gone.
Whether you're building an Easter basket for a toddler obsessed with construction vehicles or a preschooler who knows the difference between a crane and a cement mixer, these ideas work for ages 2–8 and fit a variety of budgets.
Let’s build the ultimate truck-themed Easter basket. 🚜🐣
Shop all truck Easter basket finds here → Amazon Easter List
Truck-Shaped Easter Baskets (So Cute & Reusable)
Truck-shaped Easter baskets for toddlers and preschoolers who love construction vehicles.
First things first, If you’re building an Easter basket for a truck-loving kid… why not make the basket itself a truck!?
Instead of a regular basket, we’re using a construction truck plush basket that doubles as part of the gift. It makes Easter morning feel extra themed — and it doesn’t just get packed away after.
What I love about it:
It becomes toy storage after Easter (we store our Number Blocks and Hot Wheels in similar ones)
It’s part of pretend play
It actually gets used year-round
It instantly makes the whole basket feel cohesive
There’s something so fun about seeing little trucks peeking out of a bigger truck basket.
If you already know your child is truck-obsessed, this is such an easy win.
The other option is to get a big dump truck and fill it up with Easter grass, eggs, and chocolate bunny! We’re adding a small truck toy, a few stickers, and a copy of The Trucks That Saved the Park inside ours this year.
FREE Easter Truck Activity Page
Looking for a free printable to tuck inside your truck-themed Easter basket?
Download our FREE Easter Truck Activity Page and Easter Basket tags here → Easter Park Download
Small & Affordable Easter Truck Basket Fillers (Under $15)
These are the little items that make the basket feel full — without blowing your budget.
Small construction truck sets that are perfect for Easter basket stuffers and egg hunt prizes.
1. Mini Construction Vehicle Sets
Why they’re perfect:
Fit easily in baskets
Great for sensory bins
Easy outdoor play
We actually have multiple sets — a few for indoors, one for the bath, and one that lives in our park bag.
Pro tip: Through imaginative play, encourage the trucks to “work” on a construction site and use plastic Easter eggs as boulders. 🥚🚜🚧
This might buy you five whole minutes to run to the bathroom or take a sip of hot coffee. ☕️
Truck-themed stickers and temporary tattoos are easy, non-candy Easter basket fillers that kids actually get excited about.
2. Construction-Themed Stickers
Perfect for:
Water bottles
Sticker collection books
Easter egg stuffing
Pro tip: Grab a sticker collection book like this one to prevent stickers ending up on walls and furniture! We even color around the stickers to turn it into a full activity.
3. Truck Temporary Tattoos
Cheap
Fun
Zero sugar crash
Need I say more?
Slip a few into plastic eggs and call it a win.
Truck LEGO & Magnetic Tile Building Sets
Truck-themed LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits are perfect for little builders who love construction vehicles.
These are played with EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. in our house.
Truck LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits are the perfect combination of two things they already love: trucks and building.
These are perfect for:
Rainy spring afternoons
Quiet time activities
STEM-style play
Kids who love to build and rebuild
For younger toddlers, DUPLO-style truck sets are easier to assemble and great for developing fine motor skills. For older kids, construction-themed LEGO sets and magnetic tile building kits add more creativity and problem-solving.
My two-year-old loves building… but I think he actually loves destroying them even more.
I love including something like this in an Easter basket because it stretches the fun beyond Easter morning. Instead of candy that’s gone in a day, you’re giving something they’ll build with again and again.
Pro tip: I’ll help build a base structure and then let their creativity take over… or start dinner. 😉
Things we’ve built recently:
Dog houses
Spidey’s hideout
Jurassic Park
Costco 🤣
Bigger “Wow” Easter Basket Add-Ons
This year’s Easter basket: a big yellow dump truck, a few mini construction toys, and a story we’ll be reading together that night.
Tonka-Style Dump Truck
Always a crowd pleaser and trust me, you can never have too many dump trucks.
You can even fill the bed of the truck with Easter grass and hide eggs!
Construction-Themed Clothes, Pajamas, and Socks!
We love wearing trucks any chance we get — and Easter morning is no exception.
A pair of truck pajamas or construction socks adds height to the basket and gets worn immediately.
Practical and exciting? Yes please.
Easter-themed truck books that make the sweetest non-candy basket additions for little construction lovers.
Best Truck Books for Easter Baskets
If you’re trying to reduce candy and add something meaningful, a book is one of the best Easter basket additions.
Some of our favorites include:
Popular truck board books
Interactive lift-the-flap construction books
And of course, The Trucks That Saved the Park
If your child loves construction vehicles working together, you might also love The Trucks That Saved the Park — a story about teamwork, problem-solving, and helping your community.
Also grab The Trucks that Saved the Park Coloring Book to pair an activity with it.
There’s something extra sweet about ending Easter night with a cozy story after a full day of egg hunts.
The Trucks that Saved the Park, a perfect story book to add to your toddler’s 2026 Spring library.
A construction-themed coloring book for kids who love dump trucks, excavators, and big machines. Based on the story, The Trucks that Saved the Park.
Non-Candy Easter Basket Fillers That Still Feel Fun
Here are a few other fun truck themed ideas to stuff your Easter baskets with:
Construction bath bombs
Truck-shaped crayons
Play-Doh + mini trucks
Chalk + toy dump truck
Truck LIGHT UP Bath Toys <— OUR FAVORITE RIGHT NOW!!!
Take Apart Construction Trucks
Shop all truck Easter basket finds here → Amazon Easter List
Looking for a fun Easter activity and fun tradition to do with kids?
Try building a Sugar Cookie Easter house! See our Easter Cottage Sugar Cookie House post for a template, recipe, and step-by-step instructions!
Easter Bunny Cottage not made from Gingerbread but with Sugar cookie dough!
Easter baskets don’t have to be complicated to feel special. A few mini trucks, a fun activity, and a cozy story can turn Easter morning into something kids remember long after the candy is gone.
If you’re planning an Easter basket for a truck-loving kid this year, I hope these ideas help you build something fun and meaningful.
📌 Save this post on Pinterest or share it with a friend so you can find these truck-themed Easter basket ideas again later!
Easter Basket ideas for kids that love trucks
More Holiday posts:
Easter Sugar Cookie House (Easy Spring Bunny Cottage)
Make an adorable Easter sugar cookie house with jelly bean eggs, piped buttercream grass, and a bunny detail on the back. Easy, kid-friendly spring build!
Easter Sugar Cookie House with piped grass, jelly bean eggs, and pastel buttercream details. A fun and easy spring baking project for kids.
Easter Sugar Cookie House (Easy Spring Bunny Cottage!)
If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I will take any excuse to build a sugar cookie house.
🎄 Christmas? Obviously.
💘 Valentine’s Day? Pink doors, yes please.
☘️ St. Patrick’s Day? Leprechaun trap activated.
At this point, building seasonal sugar cookie houses has basically become a tradition in our house — and I love finding new ways to decorate the same simple base.
And now… we have our Easter Bunny Cottage. 🐰💐
This sweet little spring house is decorated with jelly bean eggs, piped buttercream grass (which honestly MAKES the whole thing), tiny egg “tulips,” and a bunny surprise on the back. It’s cheerful, colorful, and surprisingly simple to make.
If you’ve already made one of our houses, this one will feel super easy. And if you haven’t — don’t worry, I’ll link everything you need.
Watch the full step-by-step video below before you start:
🐰 Make the Sweetest Easter Basket
If you’re putting together Easter baskets this year, I rounded up all my favorite ideas for truck-loving kids (including my book + coloring book 🤍).
Simple pantry staples are all you need for a sugar cookie house — flour, sugar, butter, and a little vanilla magic.
Why I Make a Sugar Cookie House (Instead of Gingerbread)
I’ll be honest — I’m just not a huge fan of gingerbread.
It’s beautiful. It smells festive. But the taste? Not my favorite.
And if you’ve ever built a traditional gingerbread house, you know it can be:
Hard to cut
Hard to chew
And sometimes hard to get kids excited about eating
That’s why I started making sugar cookie houses instead.
They’re:
✔️ Softer
✔️ Sweeter
✔️ Easier to work with
✔️ And honestly more fun to decorate
Plus — my sugar cookie dough does not include eggs, which gives it a sturdier structure than many “no eggs” gingerbread recipes that have been trending lately. My frosting recipe does not have eggs either as I worry about raw eggs in the icing since I actually consume it (after I admire it for a day or 2).
If you’ve searched for:
no eggs gingerbread house
gingerbread house alternative
easy cookie house template
You’re in the right place.
My go-to sugar cookie house template — simple, sturdy, and way easier than gingerbread.
I use the same simple, sturdy template for all of my seasonal houses — Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and now Easter.
You can grab the printable template here:
👉 Printable Sugar Cookie House Template
It’s designed to bake flat, assemble easily, and hold up to lots of buttercream and candy.
Why I Love This One
This house feels:
✔️ Bright
✔️ Happy
✔️ Kid-friendly
✔️ Totally customizable
The pastel jelly bean eggs give it that instant Easter vibe. But the real star? The piped buttercream grass.
That little textured border around the base pulls everything together and makes it feel polished — even if your walls aren’t perfectly straight (mine rarely are 😉).
And the back might be my favorite part…
Back view of the Easter sugar cookie house featuring a piped bunny silhouette, buttercream grass, and pastel candy tulips.
The Bunny + Tulip Details 🐰🌷
On the back of the house, I piped a simple white bunny silhouette.
Nothing complicated — just a basic shape. It doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, a slightly imperfect bunny feels even more charming.
I’ve made enough sugar cookie houses over the years to know that “perfect” isn’t the goal — fun is. None of my houses are flawless, but every single one has been full of creativity (and a lot of buttercream).
Then I added little “tulips” made from tiny egg-shaped candies pressed into piped green stems.
It’s such an easy way to create dimension without complicated piping techniques.
If you can pipe:
A line
A blob
And grass
You’ve got this. If I can make this house, you absolutely can too.
Watch How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House (Timelapse)
Want to see how it all comes together?
Here’s a quick timelapse of assembling this Easter bunny cottage — from panels to piped grass to jelly bean eggs.
It always amazes me how a few flat cookie pieces turn into a full little spring house.
Watch how to assemble an Easter sugar cookie house step-by-step in this quick timelapse. See how the panels come together, how the buttercream holds everything in place, and how easy it is to decorate.
How to Pipe Grass, Bunnies & Easy Tulips
You don’t need fancy decorating skills for this house — just a few simple piping tricks and the right buttercream consistency.
Once you get the hang of it, decorating is the fun part.
🌱 Piping Buttercream Grass
The grass around the base is what really makes this house feel finished. It hides seams, frames the cottage, and instantly gives it that spring look.
What to use:
A grass tip (I used the Wilton #233 grass tip or #29)
Or snip tiny slits into the end of a piping bag
How to pipe it:
Hold the bag straight up and down if you want the grass to stand upright
Or hold it slightly sideways and squeeze around the house like I did here
Squeeze, pull up slightly, release
Repeat around the base
Short squeezes create fluffy texture. Don’t drag — just squeeze and lift.
That texture instantly makes the house feel complete.
🐰 How to Pipe a Simple Bunny
The bunny on the back looks detailed, but it’s really just a silhouette.
Keep it simple:
Start with a small oval for the body
Add a circle for the head
Two long ears
A tiny tail
That’s it.
You’re not drawing a realistic rabbit — just a sweet shape. Slightly imperfect actually makes it softer and cuter.
🌷 Easy Candy Tulips
These are my favorite little shortcut.
Instead of piping full flowers, I did this:
Pipe a small green stem
Press a tiny egg-shaped candy at the top or you can pipe an egg-shape with frosting
Done
It’s the easiest “flower” trick ever and adds instant color and dimension.
Need more inspiration? Check out my favorite Sugar Cookie House Pinterest Board for design inspiration!
Buttercream Consistency Tip (Very Important!)
If your icing is too soft, everything will slump.
If it’s too stiff, your hand will hurt.
You want it thick enough to:
Hold its shape
Stand up when piped
Not slide down the walls
When you dip a spoon into your frosting, it should hold a soft peak at the end.
That’s the sweet spot.
A Few Icing Tips I’ve Learned Over the Years
After making more sugar cookie houses than I can count, here are a few small tricks that make decorating easier:
Save white icing for glue first.
If you’re making colored frosting, set aside enough white buttercream to assemble your house. You can always turn white icing into another color — but you can’t turn green back into white without making more.Use a glass to fill your piping bags.
After inserting your piping tip, place the bag inside a pint glass and fold the top of the bag over the rim. Spoon your icing in. It keeps everything clean and makes filling so much easier.
Decorating sugar cookie houses should feel fun — not stressful. A little prep goes a long way.
I always decorate the panels first — way easier than trying to pipe on a standing house.
What I Used to Decorate the Easter Cottage
I had a good time shopping the Easter candy aisle for this one! My design developed in my head as I selected my decorations.
My classic sugar cookie house dough (same recipe from my original post)
Buttercream icing for decorating
Jelly bean eggs
Tiny egg-shaped candies for tulips
Spring sprinkle mix (optional but fun)
A grass piping tip (or just snip your piping bag!)
If you need the base recipe + template, start here:
👉 How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe + Template Included)
👉 Or grab the printable in the shop here:
Printable Gingerbread House Kit
If you’re new to this series, you’ll also love:
💕 Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House
🍀 Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House
🎄 Christmas Sugar Cookie House
📘 The Sugar Cookie House Guide
They all use the same easy base build.
How to Make It Feel “Easter”
You don’t need special cutters. Just change the decor:
Pastel colors instead of bold Christmas tones
Jelly bean eggs instead of gumdrops
Grass around the base
A bunny detail on the back
Tiny candy flowers
That’s it.
Same structure. Totally different vibe.
Tips for Success
1. Let Your Walls Cool Completely
Spring sugar cookie dough can soften quickly. Fully cool walls before assembly.
2. Use Thicker Buttercream for Structure
You want your icing thick enough to hold shape — especially for the roof and grass.
3. Pipe the Grass Last
It’s the finishing touch. Once it goes on, the whole house looks complete.
Spring baking just got a whole lot cuter 🐰🌷
Make It a Family Tradition
I love how this series has evolved.
What started as a Christmas gingerbread alternative has turned into a year-round decorating tradition.
And I honestly think this Easter version might be one of the cutest yet.
It’s sweet without being complicated.
Colorful without being chaotic.
And festive without needing a single gingerbread spice!
If you make one, tag me @thesweetestescapes — I love seeing your houses come to life.
And if you want to build your own, grab the template and start here:
Spring baking just got a whole lot cuter. 🐣💕
The Trucks That Saved the Park — a colorful, rhyming picture book about teamwork, nature, and building something beautiful together.
NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK - THE TRUCKS THAT SAVED THE PARK
If you’re putting together Easter baskets this year, this little cookie house pairs perfectly with a spring book and a few colorful treats. We’ll actually be celebrating the release of The Trucks That Saved the Park on March 14 — and I can’t think of a sweeter way to welcome spring than books, baking, and a little creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making an Easter Sugar Cookie House
Can I use store-bought cookie dough for a sugar cookie house?
You can, but I recommend a sturdier homemade dough if you want your house to hold up well. Store-bought dough tends to spread more, which can make assembly tricky. If you’re following my template, my sugar cookie house recipe is designed to bake flat and strong.
What kind of icing works best for assembling a cookie house?
Thick buttercream works beautifully for decorating, but you’ll want it sturdy enough to act as “glue.” The icing should hold a soft peak when you lift a spoon — not runny, and not stiff like cement. If it’s too soft, the walls may slide. If it’s too stiff, piping will be difficult.
How do you pipe grass with buttercream?
To pipe buttercream grass, use a grass tip like the Wilton #233 or #29, or snip tiny slits into a piping bag. Hold the bag straight up and down, squeeze gently, pull up slightly, and release. Short squeezes create fluffy texture that looks just like spring grass.
How far in advance can I make a sugar cookie house?
You can bake the panels 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Once assembled and decorated, the house will stay fresh for several days at room temperature. Just keep it in a cool, dry place.
Do I need special tools to make an Easter sugar cookie house?
No special tools are required. A piping bag (or even a zip-top bag with the corner snipped), a basic piping tip, and simple Easter candies are all you need. The decorations are what make it feel seasonal — not fancy equipment.
Love this Easter sugar cookie house?
📌 Don’t forget to pin it so you can come back and build your own bunny cottage later!
More Sweet Posts:
Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House 🍀
Turn a sugar cookie house into a magical leprechaun trap! This fun St. Patrick’s Day activity includes a rainbow path, “Free Gold” door, and gold coin bait kids will love.
Leprechaun trap sugar cookie house with gold coins, and “Free Gold” front door for St. Patrick’s Day.
A Magical St. Patrick’s Day Treat for Kids
If you’re looking for a fun St. Patrick’s Day tradition that’s equal parts creative, festive, and delicious, this Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is it. Instead of a paper or shoebox trap, we’re turning a classic sugar cookie house into a playful leprechaun trap—complete with a rainbow path, shiny gold coins, and a tiny front door that’s just too tempting for a mischievous leprechaun to resist.
This is the kind of activity kids talk about all year long… and yes, the leprechaun always escapes. 😉
Why Make a Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House?
Leprechaun traps are a beloved St. Patrick’s Day tradition in classrooms and homes, but most are made from cardboard or paper. Turning the idea into a fully edible sugar cookie house makes it feel extra special—and gives kids something they can help decorate and eat.
This sugar cookie trap works for:
A St. Patrick’s Day family activity
A festive dessert centerpiece
A classroom-inspired tradition at home
Kids who love holiday cookie houses (even outside of Christmas!)
If you already love making sugar cookie houses for the holidays, this Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is the perfect St. Patrick’s Day twist. It uses the same easy sugar cookie dough, simple assembly, and kid-friendly approach—but adds a playful purpose: catching a sneaky leprechaun!
Instead of cardboard or shoebox traps, this one is fully edible, totally festive, and becomes part of a tradition kids will remember year after year.
Start With a Sugar Cookie House (No Gingerbread Required)
If you’re new to cookie houses or want a refresher, you don’t need to reinvent anything here. This leprechaun trap uses the same base method I use for all of my sugar cookie houses.
👉 Start here: How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe & Template Included)
That post walks you through:
My tried-and-true sugar cookie dough (sturdy, no spreading)
Baking and cutting the panels
Assembly using buttercream icing
Tips to prevent cracking or collapsing
You can also grab the printable gingerbread house kit if you want to skip measuring entirely.
And if you’d rather download everything instantly, the full template is available in my shop here.
How to Turn a Sugar Cookie House Into a Leprechaun Trap
The key is giving the house a purpose—you’re not just decorating, you’re trying to lure a leprechaun inside.
I was inspired by so many ideas on Pinterest, see my St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap Board
Here are the three must-have elements that make this work:
🍯 A Little Front Door with a “Free Gold” Sign
Every good trap needs bait—and leprechauns can’t resist gold.
Add a tiny cookie or fondant door to the front of your house and hang a playful “Free Gold” sign above it. This instantly tells the story and makes the house feel intentional instead of just decorative.
Tips:
Write the sign with edible marker or royal icing
Keep it slightly crooked for a mischievous look
Add green frosting details around the door for a magical touch
This one detail alone transforms your cookie house into a true leprechaun trap.
This idea works beautifully if you’ve made other themed houses before—similar to how I style doors and details in my Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House
Same concept, different holiday magic.
🌈 A Rainbow Path Leading Inside
What’s more tempting than gold? A rainbow that leads straight to it.
Create a rainbow “path” that guides the leprechaun right to the front door:
Use rainbow candies, sprinkles, or icing stripes
Start the rainbow at the edge of the base and curve it toward the door
Make it feel like the leprechaun can’t miss where to go
This is also one of the most kid-friendly parts—little hands LOVE placing the rainbow colors.
This is very similar to the playful, kid-friendly decorating style I share in my Sugar Cookie House Guide, which is perfect if kids are helping.
Sugar cookie house front door with a “Free Gold” sign for a leprechaun trap.
🪙 Gold Coins as Bait
This is the finishing touch that sells the entire idea.
Scatter chocolate gold coins along the rainbow path and pile a few right by the door as the ultimate temptation. You can even leave a few inside the house so it looks like the leprechaun almost fell for it.
Optional fun:
Leave one coin tipped over like it was dropped
Add green sprinkles or sanding sugar to make it sparkle
Pretend the leprechaun stole some overnight
Carefully cutting the front door with a sharp steak knife into the sugar cookie panel before baking to create the leprechaun trap entrance.
Make It Interactive (and Extra Magical)
Just like with Christmas and Valentine’s Day cookie houses, the best part of a leprechaun trap isn’t building it—it’s the magic that happens after.
The next morning, kids can:
Check to see if the gold is gone
Look for tiny “leprechaun footprints” made from green sugar
Discover a note from the leprechaun thanking them for the gold
It’s the same kind of imaginative storytelling that makes holiday cookie houses so special—just with a St. Patrick’s Day spin.
How to Build the Base Sugar Cookie House
This Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House starts the same way all of my holiday cookie houses do—with easy sugar cookie dough, simple assembly, and no gingerbread required.
Rolling out sugar cookie dough using my printable house template before baking and assembling the leprechaun trap house.
If you’ve never made a sugar cookie house before, don’t worry. This method is sturdy, beginner-friendly, and perfect for decorating with kids.
👉 For the full recipe, exact measurements, baking times, and printable templates, start with my complete guide here:
How to Make a Sugar Cookie Gingerbread House (Recipe & Template Included)
👉 You can also grab the printable kit instantly from my shop if you want everything ready to go:
Baked sugar cookie house panels ready to assemble before turning this into a festive leprechaun trap.
Condensed Build Steps
Make the sugar cookie dough
Use a no-spread sugar cookie dough designed for building houses. Chill the dough before rolling so the panels keep their shape.Cut and bake the panels
Roll the dough evenly and cut the house pieces using my printable template. Bake until just set—firm but not browned.Let cookies cool completely
This is important. Warm cookies are more likely to crack or slide during assembly.Assemble the house
Pipe buttercream icing along the edges to attach the walls, then add the roof. Let the structure set before decorating.
See the full sugar cookie house come together in this quick timelapse before we turn it into a leprechaun trap.
Watch this sugar cookie house come together in a quick timelapse before transforming it into a festive leprechaun trap for St. Patrick’s Day. Built with sturdy sugar cookie panels and buttercream icing, this easy holiday project is perfect for decorating with kids.
If you want more kid-friendly design ideas and holiday variations, my Sugar Cookie House Guide is a great next step.
Buttercream Icing for Assembly & Decorating
Buttercream icing is what holds everything together and makes decorating fun. It’s easier to work with than royal icing and sets up well for sugar cookie houses.
How I Use Buttercream:
Thicker consistency for assembling walls and roof
Slightly softer consistency for piping details and decorations
Tips:
Use a large round piping tip or cut a small hole in a piping bag
Let the assembled house sit for 15–20 minutes before adding heavy decorations
If the icing feels too soft, chill it briefly before using
Once the base house is built, you’re ready for the fun part—turning it into a leprechaun trap with a rainbow path, gold coin bait, and a tiny “Free Gold” front door 🍀
The finished leprechaun trap sugar cookie house decorated with shamrocks, green buttercream, and festive St. Patrick’s Day details.
A New St. Patrick’s Day Tradition Worth Repeating
This Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House is proof that cookie houses aren’t just for Christmas. It’s festive, playful, and just the right amount of silly—perfect for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with kids.
Whether you make it once or turn it into a yearly tradition, it’s guaranteed to bring a little extra magic (and sugar) to March. 🍀💚
If you make this leprechaun trap sugar cookie house, I’d love to see it! Save this idea to Pinterest so you can find it next March, and don’t forget to tag @TheSweetestEscapes if you share your creation on social media. 💚🍀
An easy St. Patrick’s Day leprechaun trap made from a sugar cookie house, complete with shamrock details and a playful “Free Gold” door.
More Holiday Posts:
Where to Stay, Sip, and Savor in California’s Wine Country
Plan the perfect Napa Valley getaway with this complete travel guide—featuring the best wineries, boutique hotels, weekend itineraries, and what to pack for every season.
Cave Tour at Beringer Vineyards
The Ultimate Napa Valley Travel Guide
Where to Stay, Sip, and Savor in California’s Most Iconic Wine Region
Napa Valley is one of those places that somehow lives up to the hype—and then exceeds it. Rolling vineyards, golden hills, architecturally stunning wineries, unforgettable meals, and that unmistakable feeling that time slows down the moment you arrive (especially when you go without the kids).
Whether you’re planning your very first wine country getaway, returning for a cozy Cabernet-season escape, or building the perfect girls’ trip or romantic weekend, this guide pulls together everything you need to plan a Napa Valley trip—from where to stay and sip to what to wear and when to go.
This is your starting point. From here, I’ll link you to detailed hotel reviews, winery guides, itineraries, and packing lists to help you plan the perfect trip! Cheers! 🥂
🗺️ Where Is Napa Valley & How to Get There
Napa Valley is located in Northern California, about one hour north of San Francisco. The valley stretches roughly 30 miles from the city of Napa in the south to Calistoga in the north, with charming towns like Yountville and St. Helenain between.
Getting there:
Fly into: San Francisco (SFO), Oakland (OAK), or Sacramento (SMF)
Drive time:
San Francisco → Napa: ~1–1.5 hours
Sonoma County → Napa: ~45 minutes
Once you’re there, having a car is helpful—though if wine tasting is the main event, booking a driver or joining curated tastings can make the experience far more relaxing.
Best time of year to visit Napa is December! You must see the St Helena Downtown Christmas Display
Best Time to Visit Napa Valley
There truly isn’t a bad time to visit Napa, but each season has its own personality.
Spring (March–May)
Fresh, green vineyards, wildflowers, and fewer crowds make spring a beautiful and underrated time to visit.
Summer (June–August)
Long days, warm weather, and peak vineyard views—but also the busiest and most expensive season.
Fall (September–October)
Harvest season is buzzing, golden, and magical. Expect lively wineries and higher prices.
Winter (November–February)
Often called Cabernet Season, winter in Napa is cozy, romantic, and surprisingly luxurious—think fireplaces, mustard blooms, and misty mornings with fewer tourists. It’s my personal favorite!
👉 For a festive winter escape, see:
A Curated Christmas in Napa: A Luxury 3-Day Guide to St. Helena & Yountville
Don’t miss relaxing with a cup of coffee in a tub on the Alila guest room balcony by the fire pit!
🍷 Best Wineries in Napa Valley (By Experience)
With hundreds of wineries, Napa can feel overwhelming—so instead of listing them all, here’s how to think about choosing the right ones for your trip.
Scenic & Elevated Experiences
If sweeping views and bold reds are your thing, wineries tucked into the hills deliver some of Napa’s most memorable tastings.
👉 Winery Review: Chappellet Winery
Perched atop Pritchard Hill, Chappellet combines breathtaking views with some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the valley.
Hidden Gems & Instagram-Worthy Stops
Some of Napa’s most charming wineries fly under the radar—with stunning grounds, intimate tastings, and beautiful backdrops.
👉 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries in Napa Valley
A curated list of beautiful and some lesser-known wineries that are as photogenic as they are delicious.
Scribe Winery
Don’t Skip Sonoma County (Right Next Door)
While Napa often steals the spotlight, Sonoma County offers a more laid-back, equally beautiful wine-tasting experience—often with more generous pours and fewer crowds.
👉 Best Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County
👉 Winery Review: Scribe Winery – a must-visit for its food-forward tastings and vineyard views
Sonoma is an excellent option if you’re looking to balance your trip or extend your stay beyond Napa.
Napa & Sonoma Wine Tasting Weekend Itinerary
If you’re visiting for the weekend and want a little bit of everything—wine, great food, charming towns—this itinerary is a great place to start.
👉 Wine Tasting Weekend Itinerary in Napa & Sonoma
This guide breaks down where to stay, which wineries to prioritize, and how to pace your tastings so you actually enjoy them.
Cabernet House at Old World Inn - great bed and breakfast in Napa Valley
Where to Stay in Napa Valley
Where you stay can completely shape your Napa experience. These are some of my favorite options, depending on your style and budget.
Boutique & Walkable
👉 Cabernet House at Old World Inn
Affordable, charming, and centrally located—perfect if you want to walk to restaurants and tasting rooms.
👉 Andaz Napa
A stylish boutique hotel right in downtown Napa with spacious rooms and an unbeatable location.
Andaz Napa with a giant tub near the window - relaxation at it’s finest!
Nearby Alternatives
👉 Hyatt Regency Sonoma County
Located in Santa Rosa, this is a great home base if you’re splitting time between Napa and Sonoma. Sometimes we stay here for a night, then move to another hotel closer to Napa.
What to Wear & Pack for Napa Valley
Napa style is all about effortless chic—comfortable enough for tastings, polished enough for long lunches and winery patios.
👉 Napa Packing Checklist (Free Download)
Everything you need for a Napa weekend, any season of the year—plus outfit ideas and wine-country essentials.
👉 Chilly Chic & Cabernet Ready: Napa Winter Packing List
From mustard season layers to cozy wine-tasting looks, this guide covers how to dress for Napa in winter without sacrificing style.
Korbel Winery
Helpful Napa Valley Travel Tips
Make tasting reservations in advance—especially on weekends
Plan 2–3 wineries per day max
Balance structured tastings with casual stops
Eat a solid breakfast (trust me)
Stay hydrated and pace yourself
Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?
Absolutely—but it’s especially perfect if you love:
Wine and food experiences
Beautiful scenery
Slower, intentional travel
Boutique hotels and curated luxury
If you prefer something more casual or spontaneous, Sonoma may be a better fit—but for a polished, iconic wine country escape, Napa Valley is hard to beat.
Ready to Plan Your Napa Trip?
Start with the guides linked above, and build your trip from there. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another unforgettable stay, Napa always finds a way to surprise you.
More Napa posts, please!
Printable Gingerbread House Kit (DIY Template for Kids)
Create a festive gingerbread house with this printable DIY kit for kids and families. Includes templates and instructions. Instant download.
Guessing dimensions without a Printable Gingerbread House Kit
Creating a gingerbread house is one of the most magical holiday traditions—but baking, cutting, and assembling can feel overwhelming, especially with kids. This printable gingerbread house kit makes it simple to enjoy the fun without the stress.
Designed for families, classrooms, and holiday parties, this DIY kit gives you everything you need to build a festive gingerbread house using easy-to-follow templates and instructions.
👉 Get the Printable Gingerbread House Kit
Instant digital download – perfect for kids and families
What Is a Printable Gingerbread House Kit?
A printable gingerbread house kit is a digital download that includes pre-sized templates and instructions you can print at home. Instead of guessing measurements or struggling with fragile baked pieces, you’ll have a clear plan that makes assembling a gingerbread house much easier—especially with kids helping.
This kit works whether you:
Bake your own gingerbread
Use graham crackers
Want a practice run before making an edible version
What’s Included in the Gingerbread House Kit
✔ Printable gingerbread house templates (PDF)
✔ Step-by-step building instructions
✔ Decorating ideas that work for kids
✔ Tips to help prevent cracking and collapsing
✔ Instant digital download (no waiting!)
Why Families Love This Gingerbread House Kit
Why Families Love This Gingerbread House Kit
Kid-friendly: Simple shapes and clear instructions
Low stress: No guesswork or complicated measuring
Reusable: Print and use year after year
Flexible: Works with gingerbread, graham crackers, or cardboard
This makes it a great option for:
Christmas Eve traditions
Holiday baking with kids
Classroom or homeschool activities
Family holiday parties
How to Use the Printable Gingerbread House Kit
Download and print the templates on standard 8.5×11 paper
Cut out the template pieces
Roll dough and using your template pieces, cut around dough creating panels (roof, side, front, and back)
Bake your house panels
Decorate with your favorite sprinkles or treats
Assemble using royal icing or buttercream frosting
Display and enjoy!
The instructions are written so kids can follow along with adult help.
Gingerbread House vs. Sugar Cookie House
If you love decorating but want an easier edible option, you might also enjoy making a sugar cookie house instead of a gingerbread house.
👉 See our Sugar Cookie House Tutorial for Kids
(Perfect if you want softer cookies and less breakage)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a physical gingerbread house kit?
No. This is a digital download that you print at home. Ingredients and candy are not included.
Is this gingerbread house kit good for kids?
Yes! It’s designed to be kid-friendly and works best with adult supervision.
What paper size should I use?
Standard US Letter (8.5×11). No special printer needed.
Can I reuse this kit every year?
Yes. Once purchased, you can print and reuse it for personal use.
Make Gingerbread Houses a Holiday Tradition
Creating a gingerbread house doesn’t have to be complicated to be special. With this printable gingerbread house kit, you can skip the stress and focus on what matters most—making memories, laughing through the decorating mess, and starting a holiday tradition your family will look forward to year after year. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting a classroom activity, or planning a cozy Christmas afternoon at home, this easy DIY kit helps turn a simple idea into a meaningful experience.
This printable gingerbread house kit takes the pressure out of holiday baking and lets you focus on what matters—making memories together.
👉 Get the Printable Gingerbread House Kit – Instant Download
More Baking Posts:
Sugar Cookie House Guide (Easy, No Gingerbread Required!)
This sugar cookie house guide covers recipe for dough, assembly, decorating ideas, frosting tips, and a free template for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and creative kid builds.
Valentine Sugar Cookie House
How to Make a Sugar Cookie House without Gingerbread- Easy and Kid-Friendly
If you love making gingerbread houses like I do, but don’t love gingerbread, this sugar cookie house guide is for you! A sugar cookie house is a fun, festive alternative that works for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and beyond—with soft cookies, easy dough, and decorations your whole family will actually enjoy eating.
Whether you’re building a classic holiday house or a pink-and-pastel Valentine’s Day version, this guide walks you through everything you need to know, with links to step-by-step seasonal tutorials.
Sugar Cookie House with Trucks Design
Why Make a Sugar Cookie House Instead of Gingerbread?
Sugar cookie houses are easier, tastier, and more kid-friendly than traditional gingerbread houses.
And look — there is absolutely nothing wrong with classic gingerbread. It smells festive and looks beautiful. I’m just not the biggest fan of eating it!
Over the years, I started experimenting with a sugar cookie house as a gingerbread alternative — and I honestly haven’t looked back.
If you’ve ever searched for:
gingerbread house alternative
easy gingerbread house ideas
best gingerbread house glue
no eggs gingerbread house
You might actually be looking for something simpler.
That’s where sugar cookies shine.
Why families love a sugar cookie house:
✔️ Softer cookies that are actually edible (YUM 😋)
✔️ No molasses or heavy spices required — just pantry staples
✔️ Easier dough to roll and bake evenly
✔️ Sturdier structure with buttercream “glue”
✔️ Works for multiple holidays — not just Christmas
If you’ve ever struggled with rock-hard gingerbread, broken walls, or icing that won’t hold, sugar cookies are a total game changer.
I use the same simple template and base dough for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and beyond. Once you learn the method, you can decorate it any way you want.
It’s less stress.
More creativity.
And way more fun to eat..
Shop my list - These are the tools I use when building my sugar cookie houses.
These are the baking tools I use every time I make a sugar cookie house—from mixing the dough to piping the final details.
What Is a Sugar Cookie House?
A sugar cookie house is built using sturdy sugar cookie panels instead of gingerbread. The cookies are baked slightly thicker to hold their shape, then assembled with frosting and decorated based on the season.
You can customize:
Roof style
Door and window shapes
Icing colors
Holiday-specific candy decorations
Check out my favorite Sugar Cookie Houses Pinterest board for design ideas!
Sugar Cookie Dough with Sprinkles
Sugar Cookie House Dough Basics
A good sugar cookie house dough should be:
Firm but not dry
Rolled evenly
Baked until set (not browned)
💡 Tip: Chill the dough before cutting shapes to prevent spreading.
You’ll find exact measurements and baking times inside each seasonal tutorial below.
How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House - Step by Step! Use containers to support the cookie walls while assembling
How to Assemble a Sugar Cookie House
Assembly is the same no matter the holiday.
Basic steps:
Bake and cool cookie panels completely
Decorate all pieces and refrigerate for 15 mins at least to let the frosting set
Pipe thick frosting along edges
Assemble walls first and let set
Add roof panels
You can use buttercream frosting (yes, really!) or royal icing depending on your preference.
See our Valentine’s Day post for more info about Buttercream Frosting do’s and don’t’s.
See the full sugar cookie house come together in this quick timelapse before we turn it into a leprechaun trap.
A quick timelapse of assembling the sugar cookie house before decorating it as a St. Patrick’s Day leprechaun trap.
Free Sugar Cookie House Template (Printable)
To make building a sugar cookie house even easier, we created a free printable sugar cookie house template you can use to cut consistent wall and roof pieces every time. This template works perfectly for sugar cookie dough and can be reused for different holidays and designs.
👉 Download the free sugar cookie house template here:
https://www.thesweetestescapes.com/shop/gingerbread-house
This template works for Christmas sugar cookie houses, Valentine’s Day houses, and any themed sugar cookie build.
Sugar Cookie House Design Ideas - Side walls and back
Sugar Cookie House Design Ideas and Gingerbread Accessories
One of the best things about a sugar cookie house is how easy it is to customize for different holidays, themes, and skill levels. Whether you’re decorating with toddlers or creating a show-stopping centerpiece, these ideas work beautifully with sugar cookie dough.
Popular sugar cookie house designs and Gingerbread accessories include:
Classic house with piped frosting and sprinkles
Minimalist house with simple lines and powdered sugar
Candy-covered house for kids who love decorating
Pastel or themed houses for holidays like Valentine’s Day or Easter
💖 Lace-Inspired (Perfect for Valentine’s Day)
Uses piped icing to mimic lace patterns
Great for Valentine’s, weddings, baby showers
Elegant look without extra baking steps
👉 For step-by-step decorating and recipes, explore our seasonal sugar cookie house tutorials below.
Save these sugar cookie house design ideas on Pinterest so you can come back when it’s time to bake.
How to Make a Sugar Cookie House for Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day, or St. Patrick’s Day
Making a sugar cookie house for Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day is simple when you use the same base template and decorate it for the season.
Christmas Sugar Cookie House Design - Cat in window
🎄 Christmas Sugar Cookie House
A Christmas sugar cookie house is perfect for family traditions and holiday parties. Think snowy roofs, festive sprinkles, and classic Christmas candy. And maybe a cat in a window? Why not?!
👉 Read the full tutorial here: Christmas Sugar Cookie House (Easy & Kid-Friendly)
Popular Christmas decorations:
Mini gumdrops
Peppermints
White frosting “snow”
Holiday sprinkles
Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House with Lace Icing Details for Sugar Cookie Houses
💕 Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House
A Valentine’s Day sugar cookie house is a sweet winter activity that doesn’t feel like Christmas leftovers. Pink frosting, heart cookies, and pastel candy make this a fun February tradition. When you think there’s too much pink just add more! Never enough pink in my book.
👉 Read the full tutorial here:
Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie House (No Gingerbread Required)
Valentine decorating ideas:
Conversation hearts
Pink and red icing
Heart-shaped cookies
Sprinkles and sanding sugar
💖 Lace-Inspired (Perfect for Valentine’s Day)
Uses piped icing to mimic lace patterns
Great for Valentine’s, weddings, baby showers
Elegant look without extra baking steps
St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap Sugar Cookie House
🍀 St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Trap
Turn your cookie house into an edible leprechaun trap!
Decorating ideas:
Rainbow path
“Free Gold” door
Gold coin bait.
See the full St. Patrick’s Day tutorial here.
🐰 Easter Sugar Cookie House Ideas
Spring is the perfect time to build a sugar cookie house. Instead of traditional gingerbread, decorate your cottage with:
Piped buttercream grass
Jelly bean eggs
Pastel icing details
A simple bunny silhouette
Tiny candy “tulips”
The same base template works beautifully for Easter — just swap the decorations for soft spring colors and playful details.
👉 See the full Easter Sugar Cookie House tutorial here.
Best Frosting for Sugar Cookie Houses
You have two great options:
Buttercream Frosting
Tastes better
Easy to make
Great for decorating with kids
No raw eggs
Royal Icing
Dries hard
Best for advanced builders
Less forgiving (and less tasty)
👉 Tip: For family builds, buttercream works surprisingly well when cookies are fully cooled.
My Favorite gingerbread house icing without eggs can be found on our Sugar Cookie Recipe Post
Kids Sugar Cookie Houses
Making Sugar Cookie Houses with Kids
Sugar cookie houses are much more forgiving for toddlers and young kids.
Kid-friendly tips:
Pre-bake all pieces
Let adults assemble the structure
Kids decorate once stable
Use squeeze bottles or zip-top bags for frosting
This makes it a fun, low-stress activity instead of a meltdown waiting to happen.
Snoopy Dog House Design - Sugar Cookie House
Snoopy Dog house Sugar Cookie House
Fun Themed Sugar Cookie Houses for Kids
If your kids love themed projects, a cartoon-inspired dog house sugar cookie house is a huge hit. We made a black-and-white dog house design that kids immediately recognized and loved decorating. It’s a great alternative to a traditional house and perfect for little hands that just want to frost, sprinkle, and have fun.
👉 This is a fun example of how sugar cookie houses don’t have to look like houses at all.
Sugar Cookie House and Truck - no gingerbread
Creative Sugar Cookie Builds for Kids
Sugar cookie houses don’t have to look like houses at all. One of our favorite kid-friendly builds was a sugar cookie truck, which was just as fun to decorate and even easier for little hands to work on. Flat shapes, bold outlines, and simple details make vehicle-style cookie builds a great option for younger kids who want to jump straight into decorating.
👉 This is a great example of how sugar cookie dough can be used for creative, kid-approved designs beyond traditional houses.
Also, add The Trucks that Saved Christmas to your collection!
Sugar Cookie Prep Station
Can You Make Sugar Cookie Houses Ahead of Time?
Yes, in fact I HIGHLY recommend making the dough ahead of time.
Cookies: Bake 2–3 days ahead
Frosting: Make 1–2 days ahead and refrigerate
Assembly: Same day is best
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
More Sugar Cookie House Ideas Coming Soon!
Chocolate gold coins placed outside a sugar cookie house leprechaun trap for St. Patrick’s Day.
Final Thoughts: The Best Sugar Cookie House for Any Season
A sugar cookie house is a fun, flexible tradition that doesn’t have to be limited to Christmas. With simple ingredients and endless decorating options, it’s an activity your family can enjoy all year long.
Start with one season—or build them all.
More baking posts:
15 Best Restaurants in Maui With Amazing Views (By Area + Map) 2026 Update
Looking for the best restaurants and places to eat in Maui, Hawaii? Check out our favorite Restaurants in Maui from Lahaina to Wailea! | Where to go in Maui | Where to eat in Maui | Food in Maui
Sheraton Maui Entrance
15 Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii with great views(Local Favorites & Must-Try Spots) Map included for 2026
UPDATED: January 9, 2026
Maui isn’t just a paradise for surfers and sunset chasers — it’s a dream destination for food lovers, too. From casual beach-side breakfasts to elegant dinners with ocean views, this island’s dining scene is as diverse and delicious as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood plucked straight from Hawaiian waters, local twists on classic comfort food, or unforgettable fine dining experiences, Maui delivers unforgettable meals that are every bit as memorable as its beaches and sunsets. After years of visiting and eating our way around the island, we’ve rounded up the 15 best restaurants in Maui — the spots we always return to and that we think you’ll love too.
We’ve been to Maui every year since 2013, so we know a thing or two about the island. We try and find new restaurants but we have a handful that we keep going back to! Here is a great list of where to eat in Maui, Hawaii! See some of the best restaurants on the island, sorted by area, and noted by price.
There are a few restaurants that were lost due to the 2023 Maui fire but I’m going to keep them on this list in hopes they open a new location. I have made a note if their current status as of January 9, 2026.
Related Posts: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary
Here is a map of the best restaurants in Maui made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google Maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation!
See our list of what to pack for your next Maui vacay here: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Where to Eat in Maui by Area
Trying to decide where to eat in Maui? Here’s a quick guide to the best Maui restaurants by area, whether you’re staying in Wailea, Kaanapali, or near Lahaina.
Best Restaurants in Wailea
Wailea is a great choice if you’re looking for a more upscale, relaxing dining experience in Maui. This area is known for beautiful resorts, ocean views, and restaurants that are perfect for a special dinner, date night, or a slower-paced vacation evening. If you’re staying in South Maui, this is one of the easiest areas to find a memorable meal.
Some of our favorite Wailea restaurants on this list include Monkeypod Kitchen, Lineage, Spago, and Ferraro’s Bare Ristorante.
Best Restaurants in Kaanapali
Kaanapali is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Maui, especially for families. There are plenty of restaurants nearby, easy resort access, and a mix of casual spots and nicer sit-down options. If you want great food without driving all over the island, Kaanapali is a really easy home base.
Some of our favorite Kaanapali restaurants on this list include Maui Brew Co, Hula Grill, and Barefoot Bar.
Best Restaurants Near Lahaina and Where to Eat in West Maui
If you’re exploring West Maui, there are still great places to eat in the Lahaina area and nearby communities. This part of the island has long been known for some of Maui’s most popular dining spots, and it’s worth checking what’s currently open as you plan your trip. This area can be a good fit if you want dining options with character, scenery, and convenient access from West Maui.
Some of our favorite restaurants near Lahaina include Merriman’s in Kapalua, Star Noodle, Aloha Mixed Plate.
After enjoying a great meal, head to one of our favorite kid-friendly beaches in Maui for an afternoon of swimming, snorkeling, or building sandcastles.
Check out our guide to the Best Beaches in Maui for Kids to find the perfect beach for your family.
Where to Eat in Kahului, Maui (Near airport)
Kahului is often seen as a quick stop for the airport or shopping, but it’s also home to some of Maui’s best local food spots. From casual counter-service restaurants to longtime local favorites, Kahului is where you’ll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and some of the island’s best value meals. If you’re looking to eat like a local—or want a great meal without the resort prices—Kahului is well worth a stop.
Tin Roof Maui ($)
Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732
Closed on Sundays and Mondays!
When landing in Maui, hunger hits. You've been on a plane forever. Pick up your rental car and drive 5 mins to Tin Roof! It's not a sit-down service restaurant (no liquor license) but excellent Hawaiian cuisine.
Per their website: TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.
I loved their steak bowl - chopped flat iron steak wok-fried with garlic & scallion bottoms & topped off with ginger scallion pesto, served over rice & with a side of our daily banchan. Josh ordered the Sheldon Stay Hungry Special with pork belly and garlic noodles. It was the perfect quick meal after our long flight.
Don’t skip out on dessert! Try the Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 filled with ube, chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles, and pop rocks!
There isn’t a place to sit, so pick it up and take it to enjoy on the beach!
🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
10 Best Restaurants Near Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua (North West Shore)
The North West Shore of Maui—home to Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua—offers some of the island’s most scenic and memorable dining experiences. From oceanfront restaurants perfect for sunset dinners to casual spots ideal for families staying near the resorts, this area is packed with must-try places to eat. Whether you’re visiting for a weeklong vacation or just looking for a great meal near your hotel, these are the best restaurants on Maui’s North West Shore worth adding to your itinerary.
We love to stay at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa on Kaanapali beach! See our review here: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)
Wailea Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Place B-201, Kihei, HI 96753
Kaanapali Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761
See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen
We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! Loved the Bulgogi Pork Tacos - handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla. Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!
Dessert is a must here, we loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie but they have other cream pies such as Banana available as well. Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable (they might not be taking reservations at this time, but always triple check!).
Monkeypod is great for kids! They offer FREE butter noodles.
Best time to go to Monkeypod is Happy Hour to enjoy a discount on appetizers, pizzas, beers, and (my fave) Mai Tais!
See our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant
🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Hula Grill & Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)
Whalers Village, 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants, Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other.
Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).
Barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment.
Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Also, you MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! Best part is - they are walking distance from the Kaanapali hotels!
🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Merriman's Kapalua ($$$$)
Location: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761
The perfect spot for sunset drinks and dinner, and a fine dining restaurant right on the water overlooking Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of fresh fish like Mahi Mahi and savory steak. Make a reservation a month in advance to get in around sunset (you can google "sunset in Maui" and a time table will appear). Merriman's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.
🍽 Best for: Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: SUNSET FOR THE VIEW!
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Yes, the sky was PINK! Made my Mai Tai much more enjoyable with a view like this:
Call ahead and make reservations or use Resy.com
Aloha Mixed Plate ($$) - BACK OPEN AGAIN!
Location: 1285 Front Street, Lahaina
Star Noodle had taken over their location but as of October 2024, Star Noodle moved next door and Aloha Mixed Plate moved back home to their original location. You get the most bang for your buck here! Good sized portions of traditional Hawaiian fare.
What to order: I went for the traditional Aloha Mixed Plate -most popular combination - shoyu chicken, thinly sliced teriyaki rib eye, fresh fish served with macaroni salad and steamed white rice. I also indulged in a Lava Flow which is half strawberry daiquiri and half Pina colada.
Dessert - You must get the Aloha Pie - Cookie crumble, coconut ice cream, fudge topped with coconut flakes. Calories don’t count on vacation.
🍽 Best for: Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Sunset
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Star Noodle ($$)
Location: 1287 Front Street, Lahaina **NEW LOCATION**
See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review
So many people highly recommended Star Noodle to us, but every time we tried to go on previous trips, there was always a long wait. We made a reservation ahead of time and we finally made it to Star Noodle! It’s right on the water with a great view of Lanai and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. I HIGHLY recommend you make reservation at least a month out to dine at the restaurant.
Star Noodle is known for Asian shared plates, noodle dishes & sake cocktails.
MUST TRY: The garlic noodles and pork buns were so great, they brought us back a second night when we picked up food to go to eat on our balcony! Pro tip: Order the garlic noodles with the udon noodles (they are bigger, thicker, delicious noodles).
We went 3 times in one trip and our staples were the Pork Buns and Chicken Wings for appetizers, along with the Pork Udon (ramen type dish with pork, pork broth, and udon noodles) and the garlic noodles.
For dessert, they did have some interesting ice cream flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.
Star Noodle has a full bar, but I wasn’t impressed with the selection. Their food is definitely worth the wait.
See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review
🍽 Best for: Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Sunset
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Star Noodle Pork Buns
Star Noodle Views
Star Noodle Ice Cream Flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.
Maui Brewing Company ($$)
Locations: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753 and NEW LOCATION in the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort - 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Maui Brewing Company is great for a beer (variety of selections on tap both local and from the mainland) and appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches. Try the Black Rock dip and chicken wings, you won't be disappointed!
One thing to note, the Honoapiilani Highway restaurant closed and is now walking distance within the Kaanapali resorts!
Fun Fact: The actual Maui Brew Co brewery is closer to the airport near Kihei.
🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Maui Brew Co Beers on tap
Sale Pepe ($$) - NOW OPEN
Address: 157 Kupuohi St STE J1, Lahaina, HI 96761
Sale Pepe has returned after their storefront being destroyed in the Lahaina fires!
An Italian and New Yorker opened an Italian joint in Hawaii and it is PERFECTION! We had a few of their pizzas and pasta and can’t wait to come back for more.
We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in fourths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you make the request when you order! Indoor seating also available here.
🍽 Best for: Pizza
🕒 Best time to go: Dinner
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Sale Pepe Pizza
Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck
Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761
We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of crinkle-cut fries to share!
🍽 Best for: Lunch
🕒 Best time to go: Afternoon
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Aloha Braised Food Truck - Volcano Chicken
Lahaina Coolers ($$) - PERMANENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE
OLD Location: 180 Dickenson St #107, Lahaina, HI 96761
Amazing spot for breakfast (or lunch) just off Front Street! There was NO wait on a Saturday morning at 8:30a! We sat out on the patio and had great service right away! I indulged in the Local Benedict (served over Hawaiian sweet bread with Kalua pig) and did not leave hungry. Josh ordered the breakfast sandwich, which was good, but not as good as the benedict. Their potatoes are a perfect mix of french fries and tater tots! Also, try their homemade hot sauce, but caution, it’s SUPER SPICY if you overload!
Gazebo Restaurant ($$)
Location: Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger, 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761
Great breakfast spot, however, it’s always crowded. Try and get there 30 minutes before they open to beat the line. We waited for about an hour after arriving a tad after 7:30a, but saw the most amazing rainbow while waiting (pictured below along with the pancakes that I was too excited to eat and forgot to take a picture of them whole).
Pro-tip: You can go around the back to place an order go (see where the lady is standing in the picture), then sit right on the beach and enjoy your meal with a view of Napili Bay!
The macadamia nut pancake combo with pineapple and banana pancakes made the wait worth it! Make sure you get coconut syrup and whipped cream on top. Their coffee was fresh and strong, definitely order the fresh POG juice (pineapple, orange, guava).
It's about a 15 minute drive from Kaanapali resorts.
Pro tip #2: park in the free beach parking by Merriman’s then go to the beach/snorkeling after breakfast. Just wait those 30 minutes before you swim! ;-)
🍽 Best for: Breakfast
🕒 Best time to go: Early Morning
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Gazebo Restaurant for Breakfast in Lahaina
Down the Hatch ($$) - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRES - Hope they open a new location soon!
OLD Location: 658 Front St #102, Lahaina, HI 96761
Breakfast Burrito Maui
We went to Down the Hatch on our last day, in which we were heading to the airport. We decided to order breakfast to go to enjoy at a park along the beach! My breakfast burrito was amazing with a chipotle aioli sauce of some sort and the coffee was freshly brewed.
The downside, if I may, was that football games were on and the restaurant was super busy, taking about 30 mins for my food to go.
Best Restaurants in Wailea
Wailea is known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and some of the best dining experiences on the island. From upscale oceanfront restaurants perfect for romantic dinners to laid-back spots ideal for families staying nearby, Wailea offers a wide range of memorable places to eat. If you’re looking for exceptional food, stunning sunset views, and convenient dining close to your resort, these are the best restaurants in Wailea to add to your Maui itinerary.
Ferraro’s Bare Ristorante at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$)
Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
After being in Maui for a few weeks, we hadn’t had much Italian food and were so excited about our reservation at Ferraro’s! We came hungry and ordered a lot of food for 2 people…
For an appetizer, we started with the Al Forno Fired Focaccia Bread (Nduja Butter, Roasted Garlic, Maui Olive Oil, Fried Rosemary), which was fantastic. The Nduja Butter was made with salami and was rather tasty.
For dinner, I ordered the Pappardelle A.O.C. Ragu Bolognese (Pork and Beef Ragu, Shaved Pecorino, Fiore Sardo) and there wasn’t a bite left. Josh ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara (Guanciale, Organic Egg, Pecorino Romano, Black Pepper) heavy white cream sauce with a pepper kick. Good, but not our favorite. Call us crazy, but we ordered a side of Gnocchi (Brown Butter, Rosemary, Black Truffle), yes, we ordered a side of pasta to go with our pasta and don’t regret it one bit. It was the best gnocchi we’ve ever had.
You’d think we’d stop there after all the carbs, but no, we went for dessert. So, we liked the options on the regular menu but saw there was an Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream on the kids/teens menu, and that’s what we went with. It came out looking like a tart and was perfect.
This is one of our new favorite restaurants and we will definitely come back.
🍽 Best for: Italian
🕒 Best time to go: Early evening
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Pappardelle and Gnocchi at Ferraro’s Wailea
Apple Pie for dessert at Ferraro’s
Lineage in Wailea ($$$)
Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
cinnamon leaf and POG Sherbet at Lineage
You might recognize Chef Sheldon as a finalist on the show Top Chef, and after trying his food and drinks you can see why he made to the finals! His theme is eat, drink, and talk story - which is what we did at Lineage!
DRINKS: The Mai'a Tai is different from most Mai Tais but has a delicious spin to the tiki classic. Mai'a Tai - Banks 5 Rum, Banana Milk Punch, Walnut, Pecan, Giffard Apricot de Rousillon, Lime, Almond~Spice Liqueur
FOOD: Josh and I split the Korean Fried Chicken and had both the Sweet Kochujang and Spicy Jalapeno Garlic - Crispy fried chicken, pickled kohlrabi, sesame seeds, peanuts and kochujang glaze. The chicken was tender and perfect with a light kick but not too spicy. Complimentary tea was served to cleanse our palettes and savor our dishes.
DESSERT: We were pretty full but had to try dessert! We had the sherbet flavors cinnamon leaf and POG (Pineapple, Orange, Guava juice). The pog was so tangy and refreshing while the cinnamon leaf had a spice to it. Very yin and yang!
HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A ($$$)
Location: Grand Wailea - 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam.
Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu looks fantastic!
🍽 Best for: Cocktails and Appetizers
🕒 Best time to go: Sunset
👶 Kid-friendly? No
Spago Maui in Wailea offers oceanfront dining with incredible sunset views and a menu inspired by Hawaiian flavors.
Wolfgang Puck’s Spago Maui at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$$)
Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
DRINKS: The mixologists at Spago have come up with some really inventive, and delicious, takes on the Mai Tai, giving that floating in the ocean without a care in the world feeling!
The 1944 - Plantation Xaymaca Run, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Dry Curacao, Lime
The Spago Maui - Plantation Pineapple Rum, Koloa Dark Rum, 151 Proof Rum, Apricot Brandy, Almond, Lime, Pineapple
The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils
FOOD: We enjoyed a nice sunset dinner at Spago overlooking Wailea Beach. Adam Sandler was sitting at the table next to us! For dinner, I savored the Pan Roasted Puna Chicken with surfing goat cheese, chili, garlic, and roasted Aloun Farm's vegetables and Josh had the Wiener Schnitzel with marinated fingerling potatoes, watercress, and Styrian pumpkin seed oil.
Don’t forget dessert! Try the decadent Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé topped with Guanaja Valrhona chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream! So rich and delish!
🍽 Best for: Dinner
🕒 Best time to go: Sunset
👶 Kid-friendly? No
MONKEYPOD KITCHEN
Don’t forget, there is a Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea too! See the Kaanapali section for more or see our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant
Best Restaurant in Paia / Road to Hana
Mama’s Fish House ($$$)
Location: 799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779
Mama’s Fish House is one of Maui’s most iconic dining experiences, known for ultra-fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and unforgettable oceanfront views. It’s a must-visit for special occasions and first-time visitors looking for a classic Hawaiian fine dining experience. Great for dinner and drinks on the North Shore. We went here on our way back from the Road to Hana adventure. See our guide here: ROAD TO HANA GUIDE
I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!
Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only.
🍽 Best for: Fish
🕒 Best time to go: Early evening
👶 Kid-friendly? Yes
Mama’s Fish House Mai tai
BONUS: MAUI COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SUGGESTIONS!
Island Cream Company ($)
Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761
I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream. All ice creams are hand made as well as their cones, fudge and other fun toppings. Most ice creams are natural and products are bought locally.
My favorite was the Maui-Loco filled with Macadamia nuts, chocolate chips and caramel in a creamery coconut ice cream base. So refreshing and delicious!
It was a real treat coming here with our kids! There was something for everyone.
See our full review here: Island Cream Co
Coffee and Breakfast at Island Press Coffee
Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761
You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!
Island Press coffee and breakfast croissant
Grandma’s Coffee ($)
Location: 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, HI 96790
Perfect place for coffee and breakfast if you're attempting the back way to Hana. Fresh coffees, espresso drinks and pastries will leave your tummy happy and full.
From central Maui, head up Haleakala Highway 37 from the Hana Highway. Following Highway 37 traverse Haleakala Crater while enjoying the spectacular upcountry Maui views. Continue on to the picturesque community of Keokea, home of Grandma's Coffee House. Grandma's is a short distance from the Kula botanical Gardens and on the way to Tedeschi Vineyards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Maui
What are the best restaurants in Maui?
Some of the best restaurants in Maui include Mama’s Fish House, Monkeypod Kitchen, Merriman’s Kapalua, Tin Roof Maui, and Star Noodle, offering everything from casual local food to upscale oceanfront dining.
Do you need reservations at Maui restaurants?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for popular Maui restaurants, especially for dinner and oceanfront dining, and should often be booked weeks in advance during peak seasons.
Where should I eat in Maui by location?
Kahului is best for casual local food near the airport, Wailea is known for upscale resort dining, and Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua offer scenic oceanfront and resort-friendly restaurants.
Are there kid-friendly restaurants in Maui?
Yes, Maui has many kid-friendly restaurants, including casual eateries, food trucks, and restaurants with outdoor seating that are well-suited for families.
What is the best area to stay in Maui for food?
Wailea and the Kaanapali–Lahaina area are the best places to stay for food lovers, offering the widest variety of dining options from casual spots to fine dining with sunset views.
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